Watermelon Growing In Florida: The Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Ramon Durgan May 28, 2023 Post a Comment

Watermelons are a summer staple in the United States and around the world. They're sweet, juicy, and refreshing, making them the perfect snack or dessert on a hot day. If you live in Florida, you're in luck – Florida is one of the top watermelon-producing states in the country. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about growing watermelons in Florida.

Florida's warm climate, ample rainfall, and long growing season make it an ideal place for growing watermelons. Watermelons are a type of fruit that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes cucumbers, squash, and pumpkins. They require warm temperatures and plenty of water to thrive, so Florida's subtropical climate is perfect for them.

Growing watermelons in Florida can be challenging, however, due to the state's high humidity, pests, and diseases. But with the right knowledge and techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy watermelons.

1. Choosing the Right Variety of Watermelon

Before you planting your watermelon seeds, it's important to choose the right variety of watermelon for your location and growing conditions. There are many different varieties of watermelon, each with their own unique characteristics.

Some popular watermelon varieties for Florida include:

Crimson Sweet: This is one of the most popular watermelon varieties for home gardeners in Florida. It produces large, round fruits with bright red flesh and a sweet flavor.
Charleston Gray: This variety is known for its large, oblong fruits with light green skin and sweet, juicy flesh. It's a good choice for hot, humid climates like Florida.
Sugar Baby: This is a small, round watermelon variety that's perfect for small gardens or containers. It produces sweet, juicy fruits with dark red flesh.

When choosing a watermelon variety, consider factors such as your location, soil type, and climate. Some varieties may be better suited to certain growing conditions than others.

2. Preparing the Soil

Watermelons require well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. Before planting your watermelon seeds, prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 8 inches and adding compost or other organic matter.

It's also important to ensure that the soil is free of weeds and debris, which can interfere with watermelon growth. If necessary, use a hoe or rake to remove any weeds or rocks from the soil.

3. Planting Watermelon Seeds

Watermelon seeds should be planted in warm soil, when the soil temperature reaches at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In Florida, this usually occurs in late March or early April.

To plant watermelon seeds, make small holes in the soil about 1 inch deep and 3-4 feet apart. Place one or two seeds in each hole, cover them with soil, and water thoroughly.

4. Watering and Fertilizing

Watermelons require plenty of water to grow and produce sweet, juicy fruits. In Florida's humid climate, it's especially important to water regularly to prevent the soil from drying out.

Watermelons should be watered deeply once a week, or more often during dry spells. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can encourage fungal diseases.

In addition to water, watermelons also require regular fertilization to thrive. Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10, following the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

5. Controlling Pests and Diseases

Florida's warm, humid climate makes it an ideal environment for pests and diseases that can damage watermelon plants. Some common watermelon pests in Florida include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or other organic pest control methods.

Watermelons are also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases can be prevented by planting disease-resistant varieties of watermelon, spacing plants properly to allow for good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering.

6. Harvesting Watermelons

Watermelons typically take between 70 and 90 days to mature, depending on the variety. When the fruit is fully ripe, it should have a deep, hollow sound when tapped and the skin should be dull rather than shiny.

To harvest watermelons, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the stem about 1 inch above the fruit. Be careful not to damage the fruit or the vines, as this can cause the fruit to rot.

7. Storing and Using Watermelons

Freshly harvested watermelons can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. Once cut, however, watermelons should be refrigerated and used within a few days.

Watermelons can be used in a variety of recipes, from salads and salsas to smoothies and sorbets. They're also delicious eaten on their own, chilled and sliced into wedges.

Growing watermelons in Florida can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy watermelons. Choose the right variety of watermelon, prepare the soil properly, water and fertilize regularly, and control pests and diseases to ensure a successful crop. And don't forget to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. When is the best time to plant watermelon seeds in Florida?

A1. Watermelon seeds should be planted in warm soil, when the soil temperature reaches at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In Florida, this usually occurs in late March or early April.

Q2. What are some common watermelon pests in Florida?

A2. Some common watermelon pests in Florida include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.

Q3. How often should I water my watermelon plants in Florida?

A3. Watermelons should be watered deeply once a week, or more often during dry spells.

Q4. How can I tell when a watermelon is ripe?

A4. When the fruit is fully ripe, it should have a deep, hollow sound when tapped and the skin should be dull rather than shiny.

Q5. Can I grow watermelons in containers?

A5. Yes, watermelons can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system.

Q6. How do I control powdery mildew on my watermelon plants?

A6. Powdery mildew can be controlled by planting disease-resistant varieties of watermelon, spacing plants properly to allow for good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering.

Q7. What type of fertilizer should I use for watermelons?

A7. Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10, following the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Q8. Can I save watermelon seeds and plant them the following year?

A8. Yes, you can save watermelon seeds and plant them the following year. However, keep in mind that the resulting plants may not be identical to the parent plant.