You can definitely grow an orange watermelon! One variety that I highly recommend is the Tendersweet Orange Watermelon. It is an heirloom variety that is known for its bright orange flesh, which not only looks beautiful but also tastes delicious.
One of the great things about growing the Tendersweet Orange Watermelon is that it is a fantastic variety to grow with kids. The vibrant color of the flesh and the sweet taste make it really appealing to children. It can be a fun and educational experience for them to see the process of planting a seed, caring for the plant, and eventually harvesting their own juicy watermelon.
In terms of growing the Tendersweet Orange Watermelon, it is important to note that it belongs to the species Citrullus lanatus. This species is commonly grown in warm climates, as it requires a long growing season. Therefore, it is best suited for regions with a hot and sunny climate.
To start growing the Tendersweet Orange Watermelon, you will need to plant the seeds. It is recommended to start the seeds indoors about 2-3 weeks before the last frost date in your area. This will give the plants a head start and ensure that they have enough time to mature before the end of the growing season.
When planting the seeds, make sure to provide them with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Watermelons prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8. You can amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility.
Watermelons are heavy feeders, so it is important to provide them with plenty of nutrients throughout the growing season. You can use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to promote healthy foliage growth. As the plants start to develop fruits, you can switch to a fertilizer that is higher in phosphorus and potassium, which will support fruit development.
Watermelons also require regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
As the watermelon plants grow, you may need to provide them with support, such as trellises or stakes, to prevent the heavy fruits from touching the ground. This can help to prevent rotting and keep the fruits clean.
The Tendersweet Orange Watermelon typically takes around 90 days to reach maturity. You can determine if the fruits are ready for harvest by checking the tendril closest to the fruit. If it has turned brown and dried up, it is a good indication that the watermelon is ripe. Additionally, the skin of the watermelon should have a dull appearance, and the bottom of the fruit should have a creamy yellow color.
When harvesting the watermelons, it is best to use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruits from the vine. Be careful not to damage the fruits as you remove them from the plant. Once harvested, you can store the watermelons in a cool and dry place, or refrigerate them if desired.
Growing an orange watermelon like the Tendersweet Orange Watermelon can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or new to gardening, this variety can add a vibrant and delicious addition to your garden. So why not give it a try and enjoy the sweet taste of homegrown orange watermelons!
