Looking to grow watermelons but don’t have the space for a traditional garden? Container gardening may be the solution for you! With the right variety, container, and soil, it’s easy to grow watermelons in pots and it can be a fun and rewarding experience.
In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and tricks to help you successfully grow juicy watermelons in containers, regardless of your gardening experience.
First and foremost, selecting the right variety and soil are crucial for growing watermelons in containers. You’ll want to choose a variety that is suited for container growing, such as a dwarf or compact variety, and ensure that the soil you use is well-draining and nutrient-rich.
With the right combination of variety and soil, you’ll be well on your way to growing delicious watermelons right on your balcony or patio. Keep reading to learn more about the best growing conditions and maintenance tips to help you successfully grow watermelons in containers.
Grow Watermelons In Pots Takeaways
- Choose the right variety, container, and soil to grow watermelons in pots
- Provide direct sunlight and daily watering for the watermelon plants
- Consider using a trellis for vertical growth and support
- Expect 2-4 watermelons per mature plant, and ensure warm weather for proper growth and development
Variety and Soil
You should choose a smaller watermelon seed variety and use good organic soil mix to grow watermelons in pots. The smaller varieties, like ‘Sugar Baby’, ‘Crimson Sweet’, and ‘Mini Love’, are best for container gardening, as they don’t require as much space as larger varieties.
When selecting a container, consider its size and depth. The best container sizes for growing watermelon are at least 20 inches in diameter and 10-12 inches deep.
To ensure the best possible growing conditions for watermelon in containers, add soil amendments to the organic soil mix. This will provide the necessary nutrients for the watermelon vines to grow and produce sweet fruit. Consider adding compost or liquid fertilizer to the soil on a weekly basis, as watermelon plants in containers need more nutrients than those planted in the ground.
With the right variety and soil, you can grow watermelons in pots that are just as delicious as those grown in a garden bed.
Growing Conditions
For optimal watermelon growth, make sure the plants receive at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily and are consistently exposed to temperatures between 70-95°F / 21-35°C. Place your container garden in a sunny area, such as your balcony or patio, where there are no obstructions blocking the sunlight. Remember that watermelon plants need to bask in the sun to produce sweet and juicy fruits.
Also, ensure that the container garden is located in a warm and sheltered spot, as watermelon plants do not tolerate cold or windy conditions. Here are some tips to help you provide the best growing conditions for your watermelon plants in containers:
- Choose a large container that can hold at least 5-10 gallons / 19-38 liter of soil to give the watermelon plants ample space to grow and develop their root system.
- Use a trellis or support structure to train the vines to grow vertically, which will save space and allow more sunlight to reach the leaves and fruits.
- Water your watermelon plants daily, especially during hot and dry weather, to prevent the soil from drying out and keep the plants hydrated.
- Add a liquid fertilizer or compost to the soil weekly to provide the necessary nutrients for the plants to thrive.
- Avoid placing your watermelon container garden in shaded or dimly-lit areas, as the plants need direct sunlight to produce healthy and sweet fruits.
Maintenance and Harvest
To maintain and harvest your watermelon plants in containers, keep an eye on the vines for any signs of pests or diseases. Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for yellowing, wilting, or spots. If you notice any issues, treat them immediately with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide. You can also prevent these problems by maintaining good air circulation around the plants and avoiding overwatering.
Watermelon pruning is an important aspect of maintenance. As the vines grow, they can become tangled and crowded, inhibiting fruit development. Use pruning shears to remove any side shoots after the first fruit or leaves that are blocking sunlight or competing with the main vine. This will encourage stronger growth and larger, sweeter fruit.
Once your watermelons are ripe, carefully cut them from the vine with a sharp knife. Eat the watermelons right away or store harvested watermelons in a cool, dry place to preserve their flavor and texture.
With proper maintenance and harvesting techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful crop of sweet watermelons from your container garden.
FAQ – Grow Watermelons In Pots
How long does it take for watermelon plants to mature and produce fruit?
To grow watermelons in pots you need optimal growing conditions and proper fertilization tips to ensure a successful harvest. The time it takes for watermelon plants to mature and produce fruit varies depending on several factors, such as the variety, temperature, and growing conditions.
Generally, it takes around 80-100 days from planting to harvest for most watermelon varieties. To ensure successful growth, use a good organic soil mix, plant in a large container with direct sunlight for at least 8 hours daily, and water regularly.
Additionally, liquid fertilizer or compost should be applied weekly to provide the necessary nutrients for fruit production. Remember to follow label instructions when applying fertilizer and avoid over-fertilization, as it can damage the plants.
By adhering to these optimal growing conditions and fertilization tips, you can successfully grow watermelons in pots and enjoy a sweet and delicious harvest.
How can you tell if a watermelon is ripe and ready to harvest?
To determine if a ripe watermelon is ready to harvest, there are a few indicators to look for. The first is the color of the fruit. A ripe watermelon will have a dull, matte finish rather than a shiny one.
Additionally, the underside of the watermelon should have a creamy yellow color where it rested on the ground. Another way to check for ripeness is to tap the watermelon and listen for a deep, hollow sound. The sweetness level of the watermelon is also a good indicator of ripeness, as a fully matured fruit will have a higher sugar content.
The maturation period for watermelons can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions, but typically ranges from 70 to 100 days.
What pests and diseases should I watch out for when growing watermelon in containers?
When growing watermelons in containers, it’s important to be aware of common pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, cucumber beetles, and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases such as powdery mildew and fusarium wilt can be prevented by using disease-resistant varieties, providing good air circulation, and avoiding overwatering. It’s also important to regularly check your plants for signs of disease or pest activity and take action immediately to prevent further damage.
By following these precautions, you can ensure a healthy and successful harvest of sweet watermelons from your container garden.
Try Growing Watermelons In Containers
You now have all the information you need to grow watermelons in pots. Remember to choose the right variety and soil, provide the right growing conditions, and maintain your plants properly. With the right care, you can enjoy delicious, juicy watermelons all summer long.
To recap, choose a variety that is suited for container gardening and make sure to use a well-draining soil mix. Provide your plants with plenty of sun, water, and nutrients, and keep a close eye on them for pests and diseases.
With regular maintenance and care, you can expect to harvest your watermelons in 70-100 days. So grab a container, some soil, and get ready to enjoy the sweet taste of homegrown watermelons!
Watermelons grow well together with cucumbers, so why not try a regular cucumber variety, try growing cucumbers in hanging baskets or even lemon cucumbers as well.