Step by step guide on planting watermelon
1.Choose a suitable location: Watermelon requires full sunlight, well-drained soil, and plenty of space to spread out. Choose a spot in your farm that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight and has loose, well-drained soil.
2. Prepare the soil: Till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and mix in organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve soil fertility and help with drainage.
3. Plant the seeds: Watermelon seeds can be planted directly in the soil once the soil temperature has reached at least 60°F. Create a hill of soil about 6-8 inches high and 2-3 feet in diameter. Plant 4-5 seeds in the center of the hill, about 1 inch deep, and cover with soil.
4. Water regularly: Watermelon requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season, especially during the first few weeks. Water the soil thoroughly after planting, and then water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to disease and root rot.
5. Thin the seedlings: Once the seedlings have grown to about 2-3 inches tall, thin them out so that only the strongest seedling remains in each hill.
6. Fertilize: Watermelon requires plenty of nutrients to grow and produce fruit. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) once a month.
7.Provide support: As the vines grow, they may need support to keep the fruit off the ground. You can provide support with trellises or cages.
8. Monitor for pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common watermelon pests and diseases like aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and bacterial wilt. If you notice any problems, take appropriate action to prevent them from spreading.
9. Harvest the fruit: Watermelon is ready to harvest when the fruit sounds hollow when tapped and the skin has turned from shiny to dull. Cut the fruit from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached.
