1. How much space does a growing watermelon plant need? Are there varieties for small spaces?
Watermelon can be grown easily in smaller garden areas with bush varieties. Try seeding a watermelon variety like Cal Sweet Bush, Mini Love, or Sugar Baby Bush in your smaller garden. The vines only reach 18 to 20 inches instead of 3 plus feet. Plant bush watermelon in hills of 2 plants about 12 to 14 inches apart. You should be able to grow one nice watermelon on every bush plant. Also, consider growing your standard vining watermelon vertical, train your large vines up like runner beans. Do not forget to support the fruits with a hammock as they grow. Big and little kids love to watch melons and watermelons grow vertically.
2. What are the major pests to watch for and how do you organically prevent them?
Surprisingly there are actually very few insect pests for melons and watermelons. The plants have many pubescence (hairs) that act as natural protection against pests. Crawling insects like flea and cucumber beetles can be controlled by floating row covers, diatomaceous earth, and organic insecticide soap applications. Be careful using oil-based biocides, in high light and hot conditions these products can burn the plants after applying. Also, consider releasing predator insects like Lady Bird Beetles to help control aphids and thrips. If you choose to release beneficial insects make sure to do this weekly for a month to create long term control.
3. Does watermelon need more water than typical fruiting plants (such as tomatoes) because the fruit is so large and mainly water?
These desert-inspired plants are actually very adapted at storing water. The fruits are indeed mainly water and a wonderous storage vessel for needed moisture in the dry climates. Since watermelons have survived in arid climates for centuries, they are well adapted at growing in minimal water conditions. Match your irrigation schedule to the plant’s needs. Too much water is much more detrimental to watermelons than too little. Over irrigation creates root pathogens that are difficult to control. At later stages, too much water can split fruit, apply minimal irrigation after fruits begin to ripen. Water in short intervals and do not let irrigation come into contract with the crown of the plant. Remember there is a complex set of roots below ground just like the vines above ground that feed the plant with moisture and nutrients.
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