When to Plant Watermelon in Kentucky: A Guide

When to Plant Watermelon in Kentucky

Watermelons are a delicious and refreshing summer treat, but they can be tricky to grow in Kentucky. The key to success is planting them at the right time.

In this article, we’ll discuss the best time to plant watermelons in Kentucky, as well as some tips for growing them successfully. We’ll also cover some common problems that you may encounter and how to solve them.

So if you’re thinking about growing watermelons in Kentucky, read on for all the information you need to get started!

Month	Days	Notes
April	10-15	After the last frost date
May	15-20	When soil temperature is 65 degrees F
June	20-25	When soil temperature is 70 degrees F

Watermelons are a delicious and refreshing summer treat. They are also a relatively easy crop to grow in Kentucky, as long as you choose the right variety and plant it at the right time.

In this article, we will discuss the best time to plant watermelons in Kentucky, as well as the different varieties that are available. We will also provide tips on how to grow watermelons successfully.

When to Plant Watermelon in Kentucky

The best time to plant watermelons in Kentucky is from late May to early June. This is when the soil has warmed up to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and the risk of frost has passed.

If you are planting watermelons in a container, you can start them indoors about 4 weeks before the last frost date.

Varieties of Watermelons

There are many different varieties of watermelons available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties for Kentucky include:

• Sugar Baby: This is a small, sweet watermelon that is perfect for snacking.
• Crimson Sweet: This is a large, juicy watermelon that is perfect for slicing and sharing.
• Jubilee: This is a striped watermelon that is both sweet and flavorful.

When choosing a variety of watermelon to plant in Kentucky, consider the following factors:

• Climate: Some varieties of watermelons are better suited for hot, humid climates, while others are better suited for cooler climates.
• Soil conditions: Watermelons need well-drained soil to grow properly.
• Disease resistance: Some varieties of watermelons are more resistant to diseases than others.
• Harvest time: Watermelons are ready to harvest when the rind is dark green and the flesh is firm and juicy.

How to Grow Watermelons

Watermelons are relatively easy to grow, but there are a few things you can do to help ensure a successful harvest.

• Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
• Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart.
• Water the plants regularly, especially during dry weather.
• Fertilize the plants every 2 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Mulch the plants to help keep the soil moist and to suppress weeds.
• Protect the plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting Watermelons

Watermelons are ready to harvest when the rind is dark green and the flesh is firm and juicy. The best way to check if a watermelon is ripe is to give it a gentle squeeze. If the rind gives slightly, the watermelon is ripe.

To harvest a watermelon, cut it from the vine with a sharp knife. Be sure to leave a few inches of stem attached to the watermelon.

Watermelons can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Watermelons are a delicious and refreshing summer treat that is easy to grow in Kentucky. By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of watermelons every year.

Additional Resources

• [The University of Kentucky Extension Service](https://extension.uky.edu/horticulture/fruit/watermelons) provides information on how to grow watermelons in Kentucky.
• [The Old Farmer’s Almanac](https://www.almanac.com/garden/vegetables/growing-watermelons) offers tips on planting, caring for, and harvesting watermelons.
• [Gardening Know How](https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/watermelon/growing-watermelons.htm) provides detailed information on growing watermelons, including varieties, planting, care, and harvesting.

3. Planting and Care

Watermelons can be planted directly in the ground or started in pots indoors. If you are planting watermelons in the ground, space the plants 3 feet apart. Watermelons need regular watering, especially during dry periods. They also need to be fertilized regularly.

To plant watermelons in the ground:

1. Choose a sunny spot in your garden that has well-drained soil.
2. Dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the roots of the watermelon plant.
3. Add a few handfuls of compost or manure to the bottom of the hole.
4. Place the watermelon seedling in the hole and cover it with soil.
5. Water the seedling thoroughly.

To start watermelons in pots:

1. Fill a pot with potting soil.
2. Sow two or three watermelon seeds per pot.
3. Cover the seeds with soil and water them.
4. Place the pots in a sunny spot and keep them warm.
5. Once the seedlings have sprouted, thin them to one plant per pot.

Watermelons need regular watering, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.

Watermelons also need to be fertilized regularly. Use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and potassium. Fertilize the plants every two weeks, or according to the directions on the fertilizer package.

4. Harvesting and Storage

Watermelons are ready to harvest when the rind is firm and the skin has a yellow or orange tint. To harvest a watermelon, cut it off the vine with a sharp knife.

Watermelons can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. To store watermelons, cut them in half and remove the seeds. Wrap the halves in plastic wrap and place them in a cool, dry place.

Watermelons are a delicious and nutritious summer treat. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium and magnesium. Watermelons are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack or dessert.

Here are some tips for growing watermelons in Kentucky:

• Choose a variety of watermelon that is adapted to your growing region.
• Plant watermelons in full sun.
• Water watermelons regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilize watermelons regularly.
• Harvest watermelons when they are ripe.
• Store watermelons in a cool, dry place.

By following these tips, you can grow delicious and nutritious watermelons in Kentucky.

When is the best time to plant watermelon in Kentucky?

The best time to plant watermelon in Kentucky is from mid-May to early June. This will give the plants enough time to grow and mature before the summer heat sets in.

What are the ideal soil conditions for growing watermelons?

Watermelons grow best in well-drained, sandy loam soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 6.8.

How much sun do watermelons need?

Watermelons need full sun to produce the best fruit.

How much water do watermelons need?

Watermelons need a lot of water, especially during the fruiting stage. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.

What are the best varieties of watermelon to grow in Kentucky?

Some of the best varieties of watermelon to grow in Kentucky include:

• Crimson Sweet
• Sugar Baby
• Jubilee
• Charleston Gray
• Black Diamond

How do I prevent watermelons from splitting?

To prevent watermelons from splitting, you can:

• Water the plants deeply and regularly.
• Mulch around the plants to help keep the soil moist.
• Pick the watermelons when they are ripe but not too soft.

What are the common pests and diseases that affect watermelons?

Some of the common pests and diseases that affect watermelons include:

• Aphids
• Squash bugs
• Cucumber beetles
• Watermelon mosaic virus
• Anthracnose

How can I control pests and diseases on my watermelon plants?

You can control pests and diseases on your watermelon plants by:

• Using row covers to protect the plants from pests.
• Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plants to kill aphids and other pests.
• Treating the plants with fungicide to protect them from diseases.

How do I harvest watermelons?

Watermelons are ready to harvest when the rind is firm and the skin has a yellow or tan color. The stem should also be dry and shriveled. To harvest a watermelon, cut it off the vine with a sharp knife.

How do I store watermelons?

Watermelons can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. To store them longer, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator. Watermelons can also be frozen for up to six months.

When to plant watermelon in Kentucky depends on the variety you choose. Early-season varieties can be planted as early as April, while late-season varieties should be planted in June. The ideal soil temperature for planting watermelon is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Watermelons need full sun and well-drained soil. They are heavy feeders, so it is important to fertilize them regularly. Watermelons are ready to harvest when the rind is hard and the flesh is firm.

Here are some key takeaways about when to plant watermelon in Kentucky:

• Early-season varieties can be planted as early as April, while late-season varieties should be planted in June.
• The ideal soil temperature for planting watermelon is 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Watermelons need full sun and well-drained soil.
• They are heavy feeders, so it is important to fertilize them regularly.
• Watermelons are ready to harvest when the rind is hard and the flesh is firm.