Watermelon
Citrullus lanatus subsp. lanatus
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Tissue Culture
Hardiness Zone:
Sun:
full sun
Fruits:
green,red,yellow,pink Fruits Ready In Summer
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Watermelons prefer loose, well-draining soils with a pH of 6-7. Water them deeply 1 to 2 times per week to ensure that the plant has sufficient moisture. More frequent watering may be needed during periods of high temperatures. Make sure not to over-saturate the soil, as this can lead to problems such as root rot. Aim to provide 1-2 inches of water per week in total. During hot summer months, you may need to water twice a week. As the fruits begin to ripen, water less frequently to prevent cracking.
sunlight
Watermelon plants thrive in full sun, meaning they require 8-10 hours of direct sunlight each day. During the warmer months, when the sun is strongest, it is ideal to give Watermelons as much sunlight as possible. During the summer season, Watermelons should ideally receive full sun exposure throughout most of the day. In the early morning, however, some shade may be beneficial because of the intense morning sunlight. In the winter, Watermelons should receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day, although additional light may be necessary depending on the weather. If the winter days are shorter or the sun is not as intense, providing the plants with supplemental lighting may be beneficial.
pruning
Watermelons should be pruned when the vines reach 8 to 12 feet in length. Pruning should be done throughout the growing season to encourage the growth of lateral vines. When pruning, about 25 to 40 percent of the main stem should be cut back, but no more than 50 percent (1). Pruning should be done in mid- to late summer, after fruiting has started. This will help keep the plants from becoming unruly and will encourage further fruit production. Make sure to remove any dead or damaged vines when pruning as well.
FAQ
Is watermelon a good source of hydration?
Yes, watermelon is a great source of hydration. It is about 92% water and rich in electrolytes for hydration. It is also an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and B-6, as well as potassium. The electrolytes and water content of watermelon can help replace lost fluid and electrolytes, making it a great post-exercise snack. Watermelon is also low in calories, so it can be a great way to rehydrate without over-consuming calories.
Are watermelons good for weight loss?
Yes, watermelons can be a great food for weight loss. Watermelon is low in calories and rich in fiber making it a great snack to keep you feeling full and help you to avoid overeating. Additionally, watermelon is rich in essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, potassium and magnesium, as well as antioxidants which help to support overall health and wellness. Eating watermelon can help you to stay hydrated and can give you the required energy for a healthier lifestyle.
Should watermelons be refrigerated before eating?
Yes, it is recommended that watermelons be refrigerated before eating. Not only will refrigerating the fruit make it taste better, but it will also help preserve it for a long period of time. Refrigerating the watermelon will help keep it fresh and crisp, and make it more enjoyable to eat. It is also important to store any leftover watermelon in the refrigerator so that it does not spoil.
