How to Sow Watermelon
Sow in deep, well-worked soil in a warm, sunny location after all danger of frost. Sow 5-6
seeds in groups, allowing 2-3" between the seeds, spacing the groups 6-8' apart each way. Cover
seeds with 1/2-1" of fine soil and firm lightly. For early fruiting or in a short growing
season, plants may be started indoors 3-4 weeks before last spring frost. Before transfer to
garden, accustom plants to outdoor conditions by moving to a sheltered area outside for a week.
For some varieties, seeds of pollinators are included in the packet. Sow as many seeds as
possible to ensure pollination.
How to Grow Watermelon
Thin to 2-3 seedlings in each group after plants are well established. Grow on plastic mulch
to control weeds, conserve soil moisture and protect fruit by keeping it off the ground.
Harvesting Watermelon
Watermelons are ready to be harvested when they twist easily off the stem and have a
yellowish color where the melon rind has been resting on the ground. Some tap watermelons to
test for ripeness, checking for a hollow sound and not a soft or dull thudding sound.
