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Posted By: Kurlie77 Watermelons - May 11th, 2005 at 07:51 PM
Watermelons are something I have never grown before, and this year I have two little ones growing indoors that I started from seed about 2 weeks ago. When should I put them in the ground... and how? What kind of beds should they have and what soil? I dont know how to care for them so please help!
Posted By: Longy Re: Watermelons - May 12th, 2005 at 09:03 AM
Watermelon, like other cucurbits, like a well drained soil rich in organic matter. Plenty of manures, compost, blood and bone etc. The richer the soil the better. They like a fair bit of water while they're growing but can take care of themselves once established so long as they get a deep watering weekly or so. Mulching helps and keeps the fruit clean as well.
Plant out once the soil has warmed to over 12-15 deg c and the seedlings have their first set of true leaves. Water before and after transplanting with a weak seaweed fert to reduce transplanting shock. Pick the fruit when the little 'pigs tail' opposite where the stalk joins the vine dries out.
Posted By: Kurlie77 Re: Watermelons - May 14th, 2005 at 10:19 PM
Thank you Longy!!
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