11.04.2017 19 768

How to grow a watermelon and not be left without a crop - we share tricks!

When planning to cultivate melon, many summer residents are wondering how to grow watermelon so that it is sweet and tasty. There are many questions, so you definitely need to understand all the points: find out which variety is better to plant, what time to plant, how to care for, water, what to fertilize, when and how to pinch watermelons, and most importantly - when to collect from the garden? In order not to miss anything, read the article in full ...

Sweet watermelon - choosing the best varieties

Summer gives us a lot of positive emotions and memories, it is during this period that the largest crop flow of the year falls. An integral attribute summer period is a big ripe watermelon. The only question is how to break this “watermelon tradition” and harvest a generous harvest according to the season.

In order for a watermelon to grow tasty, large and healthy, you need to strictly follow the rules for its cultivation and provide conditions conducive to this. Each region has its own unique climatic features, which directly affects the cultivation of watermelon. So, before planting a watermelon, it is important to choose the right variety:

Watermelon Spark- This is a kind of sweet watermelon that can be found in almost every garden. The reason for this popularity is its relative resistance to cold. On average, the weight of the fruit balances at the level of 2.5 kg, the pulp at proper care, soft and sweet, bright red color (depends on watering and fertilizers). Under film shelters and in a greenhouse, it can be grown in the Non-Black Earth Region, on the territory of Siberia, the Urals, and the Far East;

watermelon varieties of light in the context - in the photo
watermelon variety spark - in the photo

Crimson Suite- a variety that is famous for its taste, color saturation. Such a watermelon endures transportation and viruses, keeping the fruit sweet and healthy. Early ripe variety (73-85 days), good fruits can be obtained in hot summer conditions;

watermelon variety Crimson Sweet - on the photo

Charleston gray- watermelons of this variety obviously did not originate from our region, however, they took root perfectly. The oval fruit and yellow-green color of the peel hide a wonderful taste and aroma. How long the Charleston Gray watermelon ripens depends on the growing environment, but the average is up to 100 days. The color of the fruit is red, of medium saturation, and the pulp itself is soft and juicy. The variety was discovered by French specialists and is successfully grown all over the world;

watermelon variety Charleston gray - on the photo

Chill- is familiar to us as a small dark green fruit with pinkish-red flesh. The mass of watermelon is up to 5 kg, it is distinguished by transportability and cold resistance. The number of seeds is small Brown color, the taste is mildly sweet. Refers to a subspecies of medium ripeness;

watermelon variety Kholodok - on the photo

sugar baby- it is not uncommon to find such watermelons in the areas of summer residents. The round fruit reaches up to 4 kg by weight, has a dark green skin color without a pattern. The pulp is very tasty and rich, has a bright red color. The size of the seeds is large enough, an excellent option for seedlings. The fruit of the sugar baby is great for pickling, if you suddenly want to cook canned watermelons;

watermelon variety Sugar baby in the context - on the photo
watermelon varieties Sugar baby - in the photo

The gift of the sun- just the variety that, by its name, already has sympathy for itself. The round fruit has the best taste and attractive appearance. The color of the peel is yellow, the thickness is medium. This type matures already on the 65th day of its vegetation and reaches 4 kg;

watermelon variety Gift of the sun - on the photo
watermelon varieties Gift of the sun in the context - in the photo

Watermelon "Gift of the Sun" - on the photo

Watermelon Astrakhan- another representative of striped melons in summer cottages. Oval-round shape, very sweet and tasty, with red pulp inside. The weight of one fruit, subject to the cultivation techniques, can reach 8-10 kg;

watermelon variety Astrakhan - on the photo
watermelon Astrakhan - on the photo

Lunar- for a snack, we offer a variety of watermelon known recently, which is distinguished by its excellent presentation and excellent taste. The outer color is pronounced in the form of black and green stripes. The shape of the fetus is standard, but the most interesting thing is inside. The color of the pulp is saturated yellow color, which is a huge rarity among subspecies. Yellow watermelon is not to everyone's taste, but you might like its taste. The number of seeds is minimal, and the total weight of the fruit reaches an average of 3.5 kg.

watermelon Lunar - on the photo
watermelon variety Lunny - on the photo

watermelon variety Lunny in the context - on the photo

Technology of growing watermelons

For the watermelon bush to provide good harvest, you need to know the basic rules and procedures for cultivation. First of all, one should take into account the climatic features of the region and the condition of the soil.

In April or May, you can start planting watermelons for seedlings, taking into account the varietal characteristics, namely the growing season. If the period is short, plant later, a long growing period - we plant watermelon seedlings early. Now you need to soak the watermelon seeds in a damp cloth, put them in a warm place, and wait until they peck.

Very often summer residents and gardeners complain that watermelon seeds do not germinate, do not hatch, what should I do? This problem can be solved if any stimulant (Energen, Heteroauxin, etc.) is added to the water according to the instructions to help the seeds hatch.

germination of watermelon seeds - in the photo

Some gardeners use plastic cups, cotton pads (a couple of pieces) are placed at the bottom, soaked well with water and a stimulant, and seeds are laid on top. Close with a plastic bag and put on the battery. In such conditions, according to experienced gardeners, watermelon seeds germinate in just two days. In the same way, it is better to germinate seedless watermelons, after washing off the protective shell from the seeds (rub a little with a sponge).

The hatched seeds should be planted in pots, planting to a depth of 3-4 cm. Do not forget to moisten the substrate, after which cover the plantings plastic wrap and put away in warm place with a temperature of +20 °С ... +23 °С. It is very important to maintain the temperature within the permitted range so that the seedlings sprout together and quickly. The film is removed when the cotyledons of the sprouts are fully opened and then the temperature is reduced to +18 ° C.

Care in detail - pinching watermelons, watering, feeding

Transplanting watermelon seedlings open ground or a greenhouse is carried out when the plants are 25-30 days old and the cultivation conditions in the open field are suitable for good melon growth. It means that:

• the soil warms up to at least +15 ° С;
• there is no threat of frost.

In open ground, it is advisable to cover the melon with covering material at night, if you grow watermelons in the Moscow region, Leningrad region, in the Urals and in Siberia, since frosts can be even before June 10. When placing plants in the garden, remember that the density is no more than 3 plantings per 1 square meter. m.

Fresh manure is not brought into the beds, but rotted manure is possible, you just need to dig a hole deeper, lay it on the very bottom, sprinkle it with earth on top, and then plant the seedlings. Instead of rotted manure, you can use straw and dry leaves spilled by Baikal - you will get a good hole for a watermelon, the straw will start to rot, and the melon will grow.

caring for watermelons - in the photo

The technology for growing watermelons provides for frequent watering in the early stages of development. When the watermelon bush begins to bloom, the intensity of watering should be significantly reduced. Watering at any stage of growth should be moderate, and the earth should be kept loose.

During the period of flowering and fertilization, plantings can be fertilized. Top dressing is carried out after watering. To feed watermelons, you can use mineral complexes or organic fertilizers self cooking. Also summer residents use Baikal, potassium humate and other drugs. It is worth noting, do not overdo it with fertilizers, otherwise the lashes will grow, not the fruits. Focus on the condition of the plants: pale and skinny - feed, healthy and green - do not touch. When the fruits are tied, stop feeding! (you don't want to get a bunch of haulm, do you?)

Experienced summer residents who have been growing melons for more than a year give a lot of recommendations to get good fruits, not small balls. The formation of watermelons can be done different ways, but, most importantly, choose the one that suits your region and is easy to care for.

pinching a watermelon - in the photo

If you live in the northern regions, it is advisable to leave 5-8 fruits on the plant and pinch the lashes so that the watermelons ripen in a short and not always hot summer. In southern latitudes, more fruits can be left due to climatic conditions. When pinching, leave 10-15 cm of the whip above the fruit. Pinching is carried out when the watermelons reach the size of an average apple.

Water melons grow when watered often and plentifully, sweet ones turn out - if there is a lot of sun and heat. In general, watermelon loves a temperature of at least +20 ° C. To create more warmth for the melon crop, lay out plastic water bottles next to the fruits. The bottles will heat up and give off heat to the watermelons.

Watermelon ripening time - when to harvest from the garden?

The time it takes to reach maturity is determined solely by the characteristics of the variety itself. Basically, the duration of the growing season lasts at least 65 days. Accuracy is absolutely not characteristic of nature, therefore, guided by standards, you should independently conduct analytics. The main signs of fruit ripeness:

• The tendrils near the fruits withered;
• With a slight squeezing of the fruit, the peel gives a signal of ripeness as a crackle;
• When tapped on the peel, the fruit makes a dull and deep sound;
• The fetus springs with pressing movements.

The fruits should be harvested as they ripen, carefully plucking along with the footboard. To do this, it is desirable to choose a dry warm day. As a rule, September is considered to be the period of mass harvesting, until the rains and colds begin. Storage of fruits involves the preservation of watermelon in rooms with a temperature of 6-8 ° C. It is advisable to place the crop in special vegetable stores with a dry floor.

Now you know, dear readers, how to grow a watermelon and always have a harvest, regardless of climatic conditions. Have a good harvest!

Growing watermelon - video

Many are wondering about growing watermelons at home, but do not know how to do it. In our step by step instructions with photos we will tell you how to grow a watermelon in middle lane Russia.

Many believe that watermelons require very painstaking care And special conditions for cultivation. This is not entirely correct. Let's consider in detail how to grow a watermelon on your own. suburban area.

How to plant watermelons: choose a place and prepare the soil

The place for planting watermelon should be on the south side, away from shrubs, trees and fences - this crop will not bear fruit growing in the shade.

Sandy soil is the most suitable option. Very good if previous year tomatoes, cereals, corn or potatoes grew in this place.

As for the soil, it should be remembered here that the root system of a watermelon goes quite deep into the ground, so you need to make a large number of fertilizer organic origin into the soil before planting watermelon, namely:

• Humus (about 2-3 kg per plant),
• Neutral peat (about 7 kg per 1 sq.m).

Can also be applied mineral fertilizers, the following are most commonly used:

• Urea (30-40 gr per 1m2);
• Superphosphate (30 g per 1 m2);
• Potash fertilizers (20 gr per 1m2).

Exceeding the dosage of these substances will provoke an abundant growth of greenery to the detriment of the growth of the fetus, so the recommended amount should be strictly adhered to.

Choosing watermelon seeds

Watermelons are sorted into three types depending on the time of their ripening.

• Early ripe varieties, like Atlant, Au - producer, Borchansky, Borisfen, Gloria F1, Darunok, Crimson, Knyazhich, Ogonyok, Sugar baby, Royal, Tulip, Orbiy f1 (usually in the form of seedlings).
• Mid-season varieties: Astrakhan, Melitopol 60, New Year, Ryasny, Snezhok, Sichelav, Tavriysky, Whole-leaved.
• Mid-late variety - Chill.

Before planting, the seeds are strongly recommended to warm up well. You can do this in artificial conditions: watermelon seeds are poured onto dry gauze and placed on a warm heating battery, in 4 hours the temperature should gradually increase from plus 15 to 50 degrees. Celsius. It is very important to constantly stir the seeds so that they warm up evenly.

Under natural conditions, you can warm up the seeds by laying them out in the open sun for 7-10 days.

Next, soak the watermelon seeds in a slightly warm solution of potassium permanganate for 20 minutes and rinse 3-4 times running water. Then the seeds are placed in cheesecloth and left in a warm place where temperature regime reaches plus 20-30 degrees. Celsius. We are waiting for the first seeds to hatch.

How to plant a watermelon

Growing watermelon in open ground.

It is worth sowing watermelon seeds in open ground when 10% of total number seeds will hatch.

Do not rush too much, it is very important that the soil on the site also warms up to plus 12-14 degrees. Celsius at a depth of 10 cm (usually, this is mid-April - May).

If the seeds still fall into the soil, which has not yet been warmed up properly, they easily lose their germination.

Growing, watermelons form whip-stems from one to 2 meters long, so they should be planted at an appropriate distance from each other. And in the rows, indent 60-80 cm, respectively.

If the soil is very dry, before planting, pour 2 liters of water into each hole (10-12 cm), then lightly sprinkle the hole with earth so that its depth reaches only 4 cm.

So we planted watermelons. It is very important to put "beacons" in the form of sticks that mark the rows, so that long before the first shoots appear, you can cultivate the land and engage in weeding.

During the period of abundant foliage growth, it is necessary to feed the watermelons. For 10 sq m you will need the following solution:

• 10 liters of water
• Ammonium nitrate or carbamide - 150 gr,
• Superphosphate granulated - 60 gr,
• Potassium salt - 50 gr.

Top dressing should be done immediately after the rains.

• Refuse fertilizers during the ripening period of fruits to protect them from cracking and deterioration in transportability.
• If you want to speed up the ripening process and increase the yield, try covering the planted watermelons with agrofibre, and then make holes for the germinated seeds. The agrofibre is left on the surface of the earth until the end of the growing season of the plant, then it is carefully removed.
• Watermelons should be watered strictly 1 time in 7 days, so as not to provoke the formation of rot.
• Yellowed parts of the plant should be removed in a timely manner.

An alternative way to grow watermelons

It also happens that climatic conditions and area country beds do not give us the opportunity to grow watermelon without pre-training.

When to plant watermelon seedlings?

You can plant watermelons for seedlings, and after 20 days plant them in a greenhouse or open ground.

It is worth remembering that everything gourd plants they do not tolerate transplanting well, so they should be planted in fairly large containers so that they can be transplanted along with a large amount of land.

So, pots of 8 * 8 * 8 cm in size and other containers at hand are quite suitable for seedlings.

We are preparing a universal mixture for planting. We mix humus, peat and sod land. Further, in the resulting mixture, based on 10 kg of the mixture, add 300 g of superphosphate and 100 g wood ash. We divide the mixture into pots and water it 3 days before planting the seeds.

Watermelons should be planted for seedlings at the end of April, in which case after 20-25 days they will be ready for transplanting into a greenhouse or open ground.

We try to keep the soil temperature in pots at least 15 degrees, it is also required good lighting, about 15 hours a day.

Watering is done at the request of the plant - when the soil is almost dry, otherwise there is a possibility that the seedlings will deteriorate due to high humidity and development of the blackleg.

Feeding seedlings in pots

For 10 liters of water you will need:

• Ammonium nitrate - 20 gr,
• Superphosphate - 35 gr,
• Sulfate or potassium chloride - 30 gr.

Top dressing is done 3-4 days before planting watermelons in the ground, we spend 1 glass of fertilizer (250 ml) for each pot.

When average daily temperature air has reached 11-12 degrees, we transplant watermelons into a greenhouse or open ground.

• Carefully loosen the soil before planting.
• Distance between seedlings in rows - 30-40cm, between rows - 60-70cm.
• It is advisable to plant watermelons in the evening so that they do not dry out.
• The wells are pre-watered.
• After planting, it is recommended to tightly close the greenhouse, thereby increasing the chance of a good survival of seedlings.
• If you planted watermelons in open ground, you can create a greenhouse effect using improvised means - cut in half plastic bottle and cover each of the parts with 1 seedling.
• During the first week, you have to water the seedlings every other day, pouring 0.5 liters of water under each plant. If it is very hot outside, try to water the watermelons daily.
• After 7-10 days, watermelons begin to grow rapidly, it's time to feed and reduce the amount of watering - 1-2 times a week is enough.
• Try to get rid of the yellowed parts of the plant in a timely manner.

Care of the ripe crop

Harvest begins to ripen in August. It is very important once a week to turn the watermelons upside down to the sun - this way they will ripen evenly.

If the weather is wet, try to put small boards under the watermelons so that the crop does not start to rot.

Stop watering the plants only 3-4 days before the expected harvest. The opinion that watermelons will be tasteless from excess moisture is a fiction. For a watermelon to be truly tasty and ripe, it needs a lot of sun and water!

Outcome

Perhaps we have considered all the main points that you should be aware of when growing watermelons in your country house. Your labors will certainly be rewarded, and you will certainly get a good harvest of watermelons!

Growing watermelon seeds and seedlings

Watermelon seeds are kept in the sun for 7-10 days, then soaked until pecking begins and hardened with variable temperatures: 12 hours at 15-18 ° C, 12 hours at 2 ... -2 ° C, and so on for 5-7 days. Watermelon seeds are most viable after 1-2 years of storage, after 3-4 years they lose their sowing qualities. outdoor seeds early varieties sow on May 3-10 to a depth of 4-6 cm according to the scheme 1.4x1.4 or 2.1x1 m (Stokes 647/649-1.4x0.7 m). For autumn digging, they add, g / m2: ammonium nitrate - 20-25, granulated superphosphate - 30-35, potassium sulfate - 10-12 and manure compost 1-2 kg / m.

In the middle lane, in Western Siberia, in the Far East, watermelon is grown through seedlings planted under film shelters. Germinated watermelon seeds for seedlings are sown to a depth of 5-7 cm in pots 10x10 cm with a nutrient mixture of rotted manure (humus) and soddy soil in a ratio of 3:1. The temperature is maintained: until germination 25 ° C, then 4 days 18; then in the daytime 22, at night 18 °C. 5-6 days after the emergence of seedlings, they are fed with chicken manure (1:15) with the addition of 5 g of phosphorus and 30 g of potassium fertilizers according to the active substance (a.e.) per 10 l of water. 25-30-day-old seedlings are planted in the soil from ventilated lowland peat, sawdust and mullein in a ratio of 4:3:3 with the addition of three tablespoons of nitrophoska and one superphosphate or two buckets of manure with the addition of three tablespoons of nitrophoska and one superphosphate per 1 m2. The scheme of planting seedlings in film shelters and greenhouses 0.7x0.7 m.

In the absence of insects, watermelon is pollinated by hand at an air temperature of 18-25 ° C, picking male flower and applying the anthers to the stigma of the female flower. Watermelon fruit can accumulate a lot of nitrates. They are contained mainly in the crust and adjacent parts, but with excessive application of nitrogen fertilizers, they can also accumulate in the pulp. In the latter case, the clearly marked light thin nutritive threads of the pulp acquire an unpleasant orange-yellow color.

Varieties of watermelon for open ground

Early ripe varieties of watermelon:

Rose of the Southeast. The plant is large. The length of the main lash is 2 m or more. The fruit is spherical and elongated-spherical, weighing 2.5-3.6 kg. The surface is segmented or smooth, in some years it is prone to cracking, the background is light green, the pattern is wide green blurred stripes that almost cover the background. The bark is of medium thickness (up to 1.5 cm), flexible. The pulp is carmine-red, granular, juicy, sweet. Contains dry matter - 8.6-13%, sugars - 7.9-9.6%, vitamin C 4.4-5.1 mg%; fruit taste - 4.4-4.8 points. Seeds of medium size (1.3-1.5 cm in length), grayish-yellow, weighing 44-46 g in one fruit. From full shoots to the first harvest, 78-83 days pass. The yield of watermelon is 1.9-2.6 kg / m2. Marketability 84-93%. Transportability is good. Lightness is weak. Powdery mildew and Fusarium wilt affect the variety to a moderate to severe degree.

Stokes 647/649 . One of the fastest growing varieties of watermelon. The plant is short-branched - the length of the main lash is 1-1.5 m. The fruit is small, weighing 1.4-2 kg. The surface is smooth, the background is dark green, the pattern is blurred dark green stripes, difficult to distinguish from the background. The pulp is orange-red, tender, juicy, medium sweetness. Contains dry matter - 7.4-9%, sugars - 6.3-7%; fruit taste - 4-4.5 points. Consumer ripeness of fruits occurs earlier than seeds ripening - after 73-87 days. The yield of watermelon is 1.3-2.1 kg / m2. Marketability 89-92%. Transportability and keeping quality are weak. The pulp during storage quickly mucilages. Varieties of watermelon with a yield, kg/m2, are also zoned: early-ripening - Volgar - 1.7-2.3, Kamyzyaksky - 1.7-3, Radiant - 2.8-3.8, Nitsa - 4.4-5.0 , Winner 395-1.0-1.5, Early - 1.7-2.3, Salute - 1.6-2.4, Whole-leaved - 2.5-4.4, Yarilo - 2.4; early ripening Light - 1.7-2.6.

Mid-early varieties of watermelon.

Favorite Farm of Pyatigorsk 286. Mid-early or early ripe variety of watermelon, depending on the zone. The term for sowing seeds is May 3-10 according to the scheme 1.4x1.4 m or 2.1x1 m. Features of care: double breakthrough, watering, 5-6 loosening in rows. Medium climbing - the length of the main lash is up to 2 m. The fruit is spherical, slightly flattened from the stalk to the flower end, weighing 3.4-4.5 kg. The surface is smooth, the background is dark green, the pattern is narrow black-green sparsely spiky stripes. The bark is thin (up to 1 cm), leathery. The pulp is intense pink or pink-red, tender, juicy, sweet. Contains dry matter - 9.7-11.3%, sugars - 7.9-8.8%, vitamin C - 6.9-8.4 mg%; fruit taste - 4-4.4 points. Seeds of medium size (up to 1.3 cm in length), smooth, cream with a black rim and spout. From full shoots to the first harvest, 75-90 days pass. The yield of watermelon is 1.5-2.8 kg / m2. Marketability 87-92%. Transportability is average, keeping quality is poor. Powdery mildew and Fusarium wilt are moderately affected.

Mid-season varieties of watermelon

Astrakhan . Demanding to heat throughout the growing season. The plant is long-branched, of medium power. The fruit is spherical, somewhat flattened from the stalk to the flower end, slightly segmented, sometimes tuberous, weighing 3.4-5.1 kg. The background is light green and green, the pattern is prickly dark-colored stripes of medium width. The bark is thick - up to 2 cm, elastic, dense. The pulp is densely pink, coarse-grained, juicy, sweet. In large fruits, voids sometimes form, but this does not affect the taste. Seeds are wide, brown, weighing up to 40 g from one fruit. Contains dry matter - 8.2-11.4%, sugars - 7-9%, vitamin C - 6.6-8.7 mg%; taste - 4-4.8 points. From full shoots to the first harvest, 86-93 days pass. Productivity is high - 2.7-5.5 kg / m2. Marketability 89-94%. Transportability is good, keeping quality is average. The variety is affected by Fusarium wilt and powdery mildew in the middle, anthracnose - in a weak degree.

Melitopol 142.The plant is large. The length of the main lash is 3 m or more. The fruit is large, weighing 4.4-5.2 kg. The surface is slightly segmented, the background is green, the pattern is dark green spiny stripes of medium width. The bark is of medium thickness (1-1.5 cm), hard. The flesh is intense pink and raspberry, granular, very sweet, juicy, medium coarse. Contains dry matter - 8.7-9.9%, sugars - 7.9-9.5%, vitamin C - 6.1-10.2 mg%; the taste is excellent - 4.1-5 points. The seeds are wide, medium in size (1-1.3 cm long), smooth, red, without a pattern. From full shoots to the first harvest, 85-102 days pass. Productivity is 1.6-3.2 kg/m2. Marketability 82-92%. Transportability is good. Fruits are stored after harvesting 3-4 months.

Varieties of watermelon with a yield, kg/m2, are also zoned: mid-ripening - Bagaevsky Murashka 747/749 - 1.6-3.5, Bykovsky 22 - 2.1-3.6, Dessert 83 - 1.8-2.5, Donskaya Sweet -1.8, Favorite of Krasnodar - 1.6-3.0, Muravlevsky - 2.6-4.2, Yubileiny 72 - 1.9-4.9; middle-late Biryuchekutskaya 775-3.0; late-ripening - Volzhsky 7 - 1.9-3.4, Kholodov's Gift - 1.8-3.6.

Varieties of watermelon for protected ground

Mid-early varieties of watermelon

Spring. For winter greenhouses in winter-spring circulation. Bee-pollinated, the main whip is long, weaving is average. The fruit is elongated-spherical, weighing 2 kg. The surface is smooth without mesh; olive green background. The bark is thin and medium thick. The flesh is bright red, granular, tender, sweet, juicy. oval seeds, medium size, dark brown, smooth. Taste 4.4 points. From germination to the first harvest, 103 days pass. Productivity is 9.1-9.3 kg / m2, with a friendly fruiting of 5.8 kg / m2 per month. spider mite damages the variety below the average degree.

The early ripe variety of watermelon Stokes 647/649 and the early ripening Spark are also cultivated.

In fact, the cultivation of watermelon in the suburbs is quite real. After all, this plant is seasonal, providing it with favorable growth factors is not a problem. Now special cold-resistant varieties with a shortened vegetation have been bred. Anyone can learn how to properly grow watermelons in Siberia on a windowsill, and begin to engage in this exciting process. Suggested below practical advice will help you understand how to grow a watermelon, having received maximum yield to the envy of his friends.

Crop varieties are recommended to be given Special attention. After all, a lot depends on them. For mid-latitudes, Siberia, the Urals, only early-ripening seeds are suitable. When choosing a variety, it is not recommended to focus only on the size of the fruit. Since the potential of such varieties can be realized only where watermelons are grown under natural conditions historically, that is, in the south.

The main thing when choosing a variety is to analyze the number of days from the formation of fruits to their ripeness. Necessary condition- accelerated formation of ovaries. It is advisable to give the palm when choosing those varieties, the fruiting of which in the regions of middle latitude is excellent, and at the same time the fruits are distinguished by their excellent taste indicators. So, what varieties of watermelons are grown in Siberia in the garden, you can find out further.

The choice of varieties for the Moscow region is diverse, the seeds are purchased for seedling cultivation. More than others, such varieties are of interest: Skorik, Crimson Sweet, Producer, Ogonyok, Top Gun, Kholodok, Melitopol 142, Astrakhan, Sugar Baby.
The latest variety of Sugar Baby is popular all over the world. It has a dark red core with grains, characterized by taste characteristics - it is sugary and juicy. The variety is early, has a dark green peel.

In addition to those that are purchased for the Moscow region, varieties are considered in demand in the Urals: Gift to the North F1, Krimstar, Pink champagne F1.

We grow seedlings

Basically, the cultivation of watermelons in the middle lane occurs by harvesting seedlings and transplanting them to a permanent garden bed.

Like most pumpkins, growing watermelon seedlings at home does not exceed a month in terms of time. In this case, the seeds are sown in separate containers, which is the prevention of damage to the roots during planting. It is permissible to grow 2 watermelon plants in each container.

In the pre-sowing period, the seeds are soaked or germinated, which can significantly minimize the waiting time for friendly seedlings.

Since it is possible to grow a watermelon at home, including a square one, only by observing optimal mode temperature for seedlings, this item should not be disregarded. In order for the seeds to germinate faster, the temperature marks should be set to 27 degrees. To continue the germination of seedlings, 20-25 degrees are needed during the day, 18-20 at night.
Since the time when sowing watermelons is early is at the end of April, seedlings are not irradiated. However, the pots are placed on the most illuminated windows and it is better on the south side.

Growing seedlings are fed twice, using mineral supplements with complex compositions. A significant role is played by the arrangement of pots, in which the lashes should not come into contact with the surface of the foliage. For this reason, occasionally the pots are interchanged.

Readiness for planting in the ground is determined by appearance- 3-5 true leaves should form on the bushes. For about a week, the plants are subjected to a hardening test. Why reduce the temperature to 15-17 (12-15 at night) degrees by transferring to an unheated room or to fresh air.

Transplanted into a greenhouse

After the opening of the third leaflet, the plant is transferred to the greenhouse. The humid climate in the greenhouse is not suitable for watermelons, therefore, in the Moscow region, the internal atmosphere of greenhouses needs some modification, for example, a good ventilation system.

Since it is correct to grow watermelons under a film in the garden, it is considered to be tied up with lashes, a greenhouse is built of the appropriate height. Inside it, the watermelon stretches to a trellis (up to about a couple of meters). Preparing the greenhouse standard scheme: with the advent of April, snow is removed and insulated with a film, after thawing the earth, cold-resistant vegetables are sown. When they are harvested, heat-loving crops that require heat are planted, including watermelon seedlings.

When co-cultivated with peppers, tomatoes or eggplants, watermelons are placed against the northern wall.

Otherwise, they will become a barrier to access. sun rays to other cultures. The most elementary technology is to plant an early watermelon with seeds under a film in a temporary covering structure.
The configuration and material used for shelter can be chosen arbitrarily, but one thing must remain constant - the dimensions of the structure are kept within 0.7 m. The sequence and timing of the preparation of such structures are similar to those of film greenhouses.

Planting technique: watermelon seedlings are placed inside the greenhouse, according to the 50x70 cm scheme. Under the film cap, the seedlings are placed in one row in the middle, leaving gaps of 50 cm between the bushes. It is allowed to put 2 seeds in the hole under the film, subsequently directing the seedlings in different directions.

The current climate is quite contradictory. Even in May, after the establishment of heat, a cold snap can constantly come sharply. Many gardeners know firsthand how to grow a watermelon in the Urals in a barrel, which varieties are suitable if there is no certainty in the weather. They continue to keep seedlings in pots for a long time, keeping them on windowsills illuminated by the sun.

We plant directly on the beds

When summer comes, the cultivation of watermelons in the open field is concentrated mainly on the site.
In addition to the greenhouse and membranous structures, the culture feels great in the beds in hot weather. How to properly grow watermelons from a stone in such a situation can be understood from the points:

• the gaps between the bushes can withstand at least a meter;
• plants provide a means of shading from the scorching summer sun;
• when cold weather sets in, the landings are covered with a spunbond;
• the ground under the culture will certainly be mulched.

Under the influence of mulch, soil moisture is retained, and the roots of plants acquire protection from jumps temperatures. Mulching rules: the type of material is selected according to the season - it is better to make it dark in spring, and light in summer to protect it from overheating of the soil.

Before placing the seedling in the hole, it is filled with 1.5-2 kg of manure or compost, carefully spilled with warm water. Seedlings are placed in the center of the induced slurry, and a recess is sprinkled with dry earth from the sides.

In the presence of peat pots they are not removed, but lowered into the hole along with the root part. from plastic and paper cups a lump of earth with roots is carefully removed, trying to maintain its integrity. Seedlings do not deepen when planting. On the contrary, it is made slightly protruding (1 cm) above the ground line.

After the bushes take root (after 7 days), the first feeding is carried out. For example, herbal infusion is used for this. A greater variety of herbs makes this “delicacy” for watermelons more nutritious. The second feeding with this infusion is performed at the moment the ovaries begin to grow.

For beds choose a sunny area, not too wet. Watering is done up to two times a week, but plentifully - the water consumption per bush is up to 10 liters. In rains, watering is generally excluded so that the fruits retain sweetness. However, watermelon cultivation with insufficient watering will make watermelons sluggish and not juicy.

We form fruit-bearing lashes

In the middle latitudes, the watermelon shoot is not able to grow numerous fruits, so it is formed. An important principle is the pinching of lashes that have grown beyond the allotted border. Further, the plant is formed from three shoots, where a single fruit is provided. The shoots on the sides and the joint stem are pinched, keeping 1-2 leaves after tying the watermelons.

Your dream is to grow delicious and sweet watermelon in your backyard? Then the information in this article will be very useful to you.

Surely on your site there is a sunny place for this huge green berries. Be patient, learn a few rules and all your efforts will be rewarded.
Watermelons are shown to people with diseases of the heart and blood vessels, in violation of salt metabolism.

Growing conditions

The main aspect of growing watermelons in open ground is the need optimal conditions, the main of which is a large amount of heat and light.
Knowing this feature of culture, it is important to understand that if your household plot located in the Far East, you will have to work hard to get a decent harvest. In a cold and rainy summer, even the most thorough care will not help grow ripe watermelons. Rather, the fruits will grow, but the flesh will turn out to be pink in color and not sweet in taste. But do not despair gardeners who do not live in the south of Russia. The key to a rich harvest is high-quality seeds and healthy seedlings, thanks to which you can grow large watermelons even in the middle lane, observing the correct agricultural practices.

Preparing seeds for sowing

To increase the growing season, grow watermelons in seedlings.
Choose the time of planting seeds for seedlings based on the timing of planting it in open ground. Average age seedlings ready for growth in open ground 30 - 40 days. Prepare the seeds in advance, as they have a dense and tough shell. Choose large, full-bodied seeds that will produce good germination during germination. To avoid any kind of disease, disinfect them with a 1% solution of potassium permanganate. Dry the seeds, wrap in a cloth and soak for 24 hours with water. Pack a saucer with seeds in a plastic bag, leaving air, and put it in a warm place. After a day, put the seeds on a damp cloth and wait for them to “hatch”.

Soil for seedlings

It is best to grow watermelon seedlings in peat - humus pots. Young sprouts have a tender, vulnerable root system, and the use of peat pots will avoid damage to it. Fill the cups with a fertile mixture containing peat, humus and soddy soil in a ratio of 2:1:1. For getting maximum effect and greater seed germination, add fertilizers of superphosphate, potassium sulfate and urea. Deepen the seed no more than 2 cm into the prepared and moistened soil mixture. In the process of plant development, you may have to pour the soil mixture and make sure that the room temperature does not fall below 25 degrees. Carry out the first top dressing when the first true leaf appears, Agricola can act as a fertilizer.

When and how to plant seedlings

Each region has its own time for planting seedlings of watermelons. Every amateur gardener should focus on the climate of his region. Remember one rule - plant a plant with five real leaves in the ground.
So that the seedlings do not experience shock during transplantation, start hardening the watermelons a week before planting. Take the young plants outside or on the balcony, make sure that the temperature is about 17 degrees during the day, and at night it is 12 - 15 degrees. As you harden, increase the time the seedlings stay in conditions of low temperature.

Start preparing the bed from mid-May, and when the temperature reaches 20 degrees, feel free to start transferring seedlings to open ground. For 1 - 2 weeks after planting, you can play it safe and cover the young shoots with a film or nonwoven fabric, in order to avoid freezing of plants from unforeseen frosts.

A few days before planting, spray watermelons with a biostimulant, this will give them durability.
Place for planting watermelons open sky choose sunny, well-drained soil. Do not form watermelon beds in the place where cucurbits grew last year. Seedlings are planted in holes on the ridges, no deeper than 10 cm and at a distance of 70 - 100 cm.