How to Plant a Watermelon in a Pot

Watermelons are a delicious fruit that's perfect to consume during hot summer days. However, not everyone has the space for a full watermelon patch in their backyard. Luckily, watermelons can be grown in pots, making them perfect for those with limited space. Here's how you can plant a watermelon in a pot:

Choosing the Right Pot

When choosing the right pot, pick one that's at least 18-inches in diameter and 12-inches deep. Watermelons need a deep pot to allow their roots to grow properly. Also, make sure that the pot has good drainage holes to avoid waterlogging the soil.

Picking the Right Soil

Watermelons need soil that's rich in nutrients, and the pH level of the soil should be around 6.0 to 6.5. You can make your own potting mix by combining equal parts of perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite. Alternatively, you can use a commercial potting mix and add compost or well-rotted manure to it.

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety

When choosing a watermelon variety, pick one that's suitable for container gardening. Some watermelon varieties that are ideal for growing in pots are 'Sugar Baby,' 'Bush Sugar Baby,' and 'Little Darling.' These varieties produce small watermelons that are perfect for containers.

Sowing the Seeds

Start by soaking the watermelon seeds in water for 24 hours before planting them. After that, sow two seeds per pot, about one inch deep into the soil. Once the seedlings are about two inches tall, you can thin them to just one plant per pot.

Caring for Your Watermelon

Watermelons need around 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Make sure to water your plant deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather. Give your watermelon plant enough sun by placing it in a place where it can receive six to eight hours of sunlight per day. You can also fertilize your plant with an all-purpose fertilizer every few weeks. Train the vines to grow upwards by using stakes or a trellis as it helps save space and keeps the leaves off the soil.

Harvesting Your Watermelon

Watermelons usually mature within 70 to 90 days of planting. One way to check if your watermelon is ready for harvest is by checking the tendril closest to the fruit. When the tendril is dry and brown, it's a sign that the fruit is ripe for picking. Another way to check is by thumping the fruit, and if it produces a hollow sound, then it's ready for harvesting.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons in pots is a rewarding experience that lets you enjoy home-grown watermelons even if you have limited space. Now that you know how to plant a watermelon in a pot, it's time to start growing and enjoying the fruits of your labor.