Growing watermelons, which are edible and refreshing due to their high water content, is known as watermelon agriculture. They are often relished during the summer months in countries all around the globe. Citrullus lanatus is the scientific name for watermelons, which are members of the family Cucurbitaceae.
- Watermelons require warm regions, with temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (21 and 32 degrees Celsius), and well-drained soil. They need six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil ought to be rich in organic matter, drain properly, and be productive.
- Watermelons come in a wide range of sizes, colors, and flavors, and can be found in many different types. Watermelons come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with the most common ones being seeded, seedless, small, and yellow fleshed. Pick cultivars that do well in your region and satisfy consumer demand.
- Clear the land of any debris or weeds before planting. Aerating and draining the soil is facilitated by plowing or tilling it to a depth of 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm). To increase soil fertility, add organic material like compost or well-rotted manure.
- Growing watermelons from seed or a transplant is possible. Many people use direct seeding. Plant the seeds in the ground, either in raised beds or in straight rows. Plant the seeds or seedlings in rows that are 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) apart, and leave 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) between rows.
- Irrigation: Watermelon cultivation requires a steady supply of fresh water. Maintain a steady schedule of watering, especially during dry spells. Depending on the kind, watermelons need between 1 and 2 inches (2.5 and 5 cm) of water every week. To save water, use methods like drip irrigation or soaker hoses.
- Watermelons demand a lot of fertilizer due to their high nutrient needs. Get a soil sample tested for nutrients so you can add the right amount of fertilizer. Primarily, your body needs the macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Apply a side dressing of nitrogen-rich fertilizer to the plants periodically while they are growing.
- Remove any weeds that may threaten the watermelon crop by blocking the plants' access to water, sunlight, and nutrients. Weeds can stunt plant growth, therefore it's important to remove them on a regular basis by hand or with the right weed management methods.
- Controlling Pests and illnesses: Watermelons can fall prey to aphids, cucumber bugs, powdery mildew, and Fusarium wilt, among other pests and illnesses. Control pests and illnesses by utilizing IPM techniques like insecticidal soaps, row coverings, and crop rotation.
- Watermelon varieties and environmental factors determine when they are ready for picking. Watermelons are ready to be picked when they are completely ripe and have become a dark color. You can tell if a watermelon is ready to eat by thumping it and listening for a hollow sound. Carefully sever the fruit off the vine.
- Watermelons lose quality and spoil quickly if not stored and handled correctly after harvest. Keep them in a humid location around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 15.5 degrees Celsius). If stored properly, watermelons can maintain their quality for weeks.
Monitoring the plants frequently for pests, diseases, and environmental conditions is essential for successful watermelon growing. Farmers can increase their profits by using tried and true agricultural techniques.