Watermelon Seeds – Crimson Sweet

Growing Watermelon Seeds – Crimson Sweet from Seed

Sun and Soil Requirements Crimson Sweet watermelons thrive in full sun and loamy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. They are best sown directly after the final spring frost. For an earlier start, begin seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost.

Sowing Instructions

• Direct Sowing: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 6-8 feet apart in the garden.
• Indoor Sowing: Plant 2-3 seeds per individual cell, 1 inch deep, for indoor starts.

Growing Conditions Watermelons perform best on 8-10 inch tall mounds of soil to accommodate their long, heavy trailing vines. They are heavy feeders and benefit from a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2-3 weeks until fruiting, at which point reduce nitrogen levels. Watermelons require consistent summertime watering, as they are about 90% water. Smaller dwarf types may be trellised for tighter grow spaces.

Crimson Sweet Watermelon in the Vegetable Garden

Planting and Growth Crimson Sweet watermelons are vine-spreading, tender annuals that crave heat. These melons are a refreshing treat and easy for any gardener to grow. Watermelons, the unofficial heralds of summer, are the largest and juiciest fruits you can grow in your garden. While most are known for their red flesh, they also come in yellow and orange varieties with a wide range of shapes and sizes. Most varieties produce 20-30 lb fruits with regular watering. Like pumpkins and gourds, they can be pruned to direct growth toward competition-sized melons.

Planting Tips Ensure ample space for the vines to spread. Proper spacing and good circulation help prevent rot.

Harvesting Crimson Sweet Watermelon

Determining Ripeness Watermelons are typically ready to harvest about 90 days from sowing. The key to picking vine-ripened watermelons is to check the small tendril attached to the melon on the vine. If the tendril is completely brown and dead, the melon is ripe; if it’s still slightly green, the watermelon is not ready. Additionally, heirloom watermelon rinds soften slightly when ripe and feel less like an impenetrable gourd. Use scissors or shears to carefully remove the watermelon from the vine.

Additional Ripeness Tips

• Visual Cues: Check the color on the bottom; an off-white color indicates unripe, while a yellow hue shows ripeness.
• Thumping Method: Knock lightly on the rind; a hollow sound indicates full maturity.
• Press Test: Gently press the rind to check for firmness.

Harvesting Steps

• Harvest ripe fruit in 80 days from the sowing date.
• Cut the stem near the fruit with a knife or gardening shears.
• Store uncut Crimson Sweet watermelons at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.

About Crimson Sweet Watermelon Seeds

Description Citrullus lanatus (80-90 days) produces watermelons with high sugar content (around 12%). These mouthwatering watermelons yield 20-25 lb fruits with juicy red flesh and few seeds. Crimson Sweet watermelons thrive in a wide range of climates and are resistant to anthracnose and fusarium wilt.

History Crimson Sweet heirloom watermelon was introduced by Charles V. Hall of Kansas State University in 1963. It was developed by crossing the varieties Miles, Peacock, and Charleston Gray.

Make plenty of room in your garden for Crimson Sweet watermelons, as they spread 6-10 feet and grow the absolute sweetest melons of all. Enjoy the delicious taste and refreshing treat of homegrown Crimson Sweet watermelons!