What Does a Watermelon Plant Look Like?

Introduction

Watermelon is a popular fruit loved by many around the world. It is easy to grow and maintain. But, what does a watermelon plant look like? Here are some characteristics that will help identify this plant.

Appearance

The watermelon plant is a crawling vine that can grow up to 16 feet in length. It has small round or oval leaves with a deep green color. The plant also produces yellow flowers that are about an inch in diameter. As the watermelon plant grows, it forms tendrils that wrap around any nearby support, such as trellises, fences or poles.

Growth

Watermelons grow best in warm weather, and it takes about 80 to 100 days for this plant to mature. The watermelon plant requires a lot of water, and the soil should be well-drained. Excessive water can cause the plant to rot. Additionally, the ideal temperature for watermelon growth is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The vine carries multiple fruits, and as the watermelon grows, the stem holding the fruit will become thicker and stronger.

Harvesting

When the watermelon is fully grown, it will be heavy and will make a dull sound when tapped. The skin of the watermelon should be dark green, and the bottom should be yellow or white. On average, watermelons weigh between 20 and 30 pounds, but some can grow to be as large as 90 pounds. To harvest the fruit, cut the stem with a sharp knife or a pair of scissors. The watermelon can be stored for up to two weeks in a cool and dry area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the watermelon plant has a crawling vine appearance, small round or oval leaves, and produces yellow flowers. It requires a lot of water and warmth to grow, and the ideal temperature is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When ripe, the watermelon will be heavy and have a dark green skin with a yellow or white bottom. Removing the fruit from the stem should be done with a sharp knife or scissors. With these characteristics, identifying a watermelon plant should be an easy task.