Want juicy Jubilee watermelons?
You’re in luck!
With the right techniques, you can grow the best watermelons ever. Check out these 8 simple tactics to help your Jubilee watermelons thrive.
Let’s grow some delicious fruit!
Pick the Right Spot to Plant
Choosing the right location for your Jubilee watermelon seeds is super important. Go for a spot that gets full sunlight—watermelons thrive in the sun!
Also, make sure the soil is well-draining. They hate soggy roots.
Test the pH of your soil, too. Ideally, you want a slightly acidic to neutral pH level, around 6.0 to 7.0.
Trust me, finding the perfect spot can make all the difference in your watermelon’s size and taste!
Prepare the Soil
Before planting, get your soil in tip-top shape. Mix in some well-rotted manure or compost to give your watermelon plants a nutrient boost.
This will help your watermelons grow big and sweet. Consider adding a balanced fertilizer too.
Just sprinkle it around and mix it in well. Good soil prep sets the stage for a healthy and productive growing season.
Plant Your Seeds or Seedlings
Time to get those seeds in the ground! Plant them about an inch deep and three feet apart.
If you’re starting with seedlings, gently transplant them without disturbing the roots. Watermelons need a lot of space to spread out, so don’t crowd them.
Also, consider planting them in hills or mounds to improve drainage and heat retention. You’ll see those first sprouts in no time!
Water Regularly but Wisely
Watering is crucial, especially in the early stages. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Once your plants start to flower and fruit, you can cut back a bit to avoid watery melons. Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry and avoid fungal issues.
Investing in a drip irrigation system can be a game-changer!
Mulch to Retain Moisture
Adding mulch around your plants can help keep the soil moist and control weeds. You can use straw, grass clippings, or even wood chips.
Mulching also keeps the soil temperature stable, which watermelons love. Plus, it cuts down on the time you’ll spend weeding.
It’s a win-win situation!
Fertilize as Needed
If you want jumbo-sized Jubilees, don’t skimp on the fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer to promote strong growth.
Once flowers appear, switch to a high-potassium fertilizer to encourage fruit development. Follow the instructions on the label to avoid over-fertilizing.
Your watermelons will thank you for it!
Watch Out for Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and cucumber beetles. You can pick them off by hand or use insecticidal soap.
Also, watch for signs of diseases like powdery mildew. Keep plants spaced out to improve air circulation.
If you catch any issues early, you can usually manage them before they get out of hand.
Harvesting Your Watermelons
Knowing when to pick is crucial for the best flavor. Look for a yellow spot on the bottom and listen for a deep, hollow sound when you tap the fruit.
The tendrils near the stem should also be brown and dry. Cut the melon off with a sharp knife rather than pulling it off to avoid damaging the vine.
Now, enjoy the fruits of your labor!