How do I make my watermelon sweeter when growing?

By / December 21, 2022

Watermelons are a popular summer fruit that are loved for their sweet and refreshing flavor. However, sometimes the watermelons that we grow may not be as sweet as we would like them to be. If you’re wondering how to make your watermelons sweeter when growing them, here are some tips that may help:

  1. Choose the right variety: Different watermelon varieties have different levels of sweetness. Some varieties are naturally sweeter than others, so it’s important to choose a variety that is known for its sweetness. Some sweet watermelon varieties include Sugar Baby, Allsweet, and Charleston Gray.
  2. Plant in the right location: Watermelons need plenty of sunlight to grow and mature properly. Make sure to plant your watermelon plants in an area that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
  3. Provide proper care: Watermelons need well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Make sure to water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. Fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilize, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, to provide them with the nutrients they need to grow and produce sweet fruit.
  4. Keep the plants healthy: Watermelons are prone to pests and diseases, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any problems and take steps to prevent or control them. Some common pests that can affect watermelon plants include aphids, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs. To prevent diseases, make sure to rotate your crops and avoid planting in areas where watermelons or other cucurbits have been grown in the past few years.
  5. Harvest at the right time: Watermelons are ripe when they are fully mature, but not overripe. To determine if a watermelon is ripe, look for these signs:
  • The tendrils on the vine closest to the watermelon are brown and dried up
  • The bottom of the watermelon (the part that was touching the ground) is a yellow or cream color
  • The watermelon sounds hollow when tapped

If you follow these tips, you should be able to grow sweet, juicy watermelons that will be the perfect addition to any summertime snack or dessert. Just be patient, as it takes time for watermelons to grow and mature. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy sweet, flavorful watermelons straight from your own garden.