How to Cultivate Watermelons in India? The Ultimate Guide!

Watermelon cultivation can be extremely profitable if done on a scalable basis. Watermelon is also relatively easy to grow when you compare it with other summer crops like cucumber.

To help you yield juicy huge and delicious watermelons, we have created this step-by-step guide. Keep on reading to learn more!

What time should you grow watermelon?

Watermelon takes around 80-90 days to grow from the seed and does not like cold weather at all. Watermelon should be planted only when the soil has warmed up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and the nights are no longer cool.

How much time does it take for watermelon to grow to full size?

It takes around 80-90 days from sowing to grow a full-sized watermelon. Smaller-sized watermelons such as Sugar baby can reach full maturity in about 70 days.

How should you grow our watermelons?

The best method to grow watermelon is to plant the seed directly into the warm soil. Before planting your watermelon seeds, amend the soil with at least 1-2 inches of compost. 

Sow the seeds ½ inches deep in the soil in small rows or hills spaced 26 inches apart.

How to prepare the soil for watermelon?

The most important thing to note when planting watermelons is that the soil should very warm for the seeds to thrive. Soil should be at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit before the watermelon can grow.

Watermelons also prefer soil with a pH of 6-7.5, the pH of average garden soils. Watermelons feed a lot to grow so make sure your soil is nutrient-rich to ensure their quality. Use at least 1-2 inches of well-rotted and rich compost or manure in the soil before sowing.

Plant care tips:

• Watermelons love the sun so make sure they are getting at least 8-1o hours of sunlight every day.

• Watermelons grow adequately with 1-2 inches of watering every week. Watermelons are 92% water so make sure they are well watered for a good yield.

• You can expect one or two watermelons per vine, in a healthy garden.

• To harvest the melon, just gently twist it until it breaks off from the vine. You also simply take a scissor or knife and cut the watermelon from the stem.