How to Grow Watermelon at Home: Two Methods for Every Gardener
Growing watermelon, a quintessential summer fruit, right in the comfort of your home can be both rewarding and fun. While watermelons are traditionally grown sprawled on the ground in large gardens, we understand that not everyone has the luxury of ample space. This article delves into two innovative methods to grow watermelons at home – the hanging hammock method, ideal for beginners, and the bag of soil method.
1. The Hanging Hammock Method (Beginner-friendly)
For those who have limited ground space or simply want to try an inventive way to grow watermelons, the hanging hammock method offers a great solution.
Materials:
- Young watermelon plant
- Strong trellis or vertical structure
- Garden netting or fabric to create a hammock
- Sturdy twine or garden ties
- Potting soil
- Container with drainage holes
Steps:
- Preparation: Start by selecting a container that’s large enough to accommodate the growth of a watermelon plant. Fill it with high-quality potting soil and plant your watermelon seedling.
- Setting up the Trellis: Position your trellis or vertical structure close to your planted container.
- Training the Vine: As the watermelon plant grows, gently guide its vines towards the trellis, securing them using garden ties.
- Creating the Hammock: Once the watermelon fruit starts to form, support it using a hammock crafted from garden netting or fabric. Secure the hammock to the trellis, ensuring it’s strong enough to support the growing fruit.
- Harvesting: When the watermelon reaches its full size and exhibits signs of ripeness (like a creamy yellow spot where it rests), gently remove it from the hammock and enjoy!
2. The Bag of Soil Method
An alternative method that gives your watermelon a more traditional ground-like feel without taking up garden space.
Materials:
- Young watermelon plant
- Large bags of potting soil (at least 40-50 liters in volume)
- Garden knife or scissors
Steps:
- Preparation: Lay the bag of soil flat in a sunny location. Ensure that the bag is strong and free from any punctures or tears.
- Cutting the Bag: With a garden knife or scissors, cut a rectangular opening on one side of the bag, leaving a border of about 6 inches all around.
- Planting: Make a hole in the exposed soil and plant your watermelon seedling.
- Watering and Care: Ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. You may need to punch a few small drainage holes at the bottom of the bag if water retention becomes a problem.
- Harvesting: Like with the hammock method, look for signs of ripeness, such as a yellowish spot on the bottom, and then harvest.
Note: Watermelon varieties differ in size and growth patterns. Ensure you choose a variety that’s best suited for your chosen method.
Conclusion
Growing watermelons at home can be a delightful experience regardless of the space constraints you might face. By employing the hanging hammock or bag of soil method, you can enjoy the thrill of harvesting fresh, juicy watermelons right from your balcony or small backyard. Happy gardening!
