Growing Watermelon

Best Planting Times for Watermelons in Florida

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingFebruary 15 – April 1
Transplant OutdoorsApril 15 – May 31
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Watermelon Planting Conditions

Florida’s warm and humid climate provides a favorable environment for watermelon cultivation. With USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 9a to 11, Florida growers can enjoy a long growing season but must also be mindful of disease pressures associated with heat and humidity.

Other planting guides for Florida:


Broccoli Planting in Florida


Pumpkin Planting in Florida


Tomato Planting in Florida


Any questions on growing watermelons? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Watermelon.

Plant watermelons outdoors in Florida approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Florida’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
MiamiJanuary 15
TampaFebruary 15
OrlandoMarch 1
JacksonvilleMarch 15
Fort LauderdaleJanuary 30

Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates, and actual conditions may vary. It is recommended to monitor local forecasts and adapt planting decisions accordingly.

Starting Watermelon Seeds Indoors

In Florida (Zone 9a-10b), begin indoor watermelon seed starting between February 15 and March 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from mid-March to early April when the chances of frost have passed.

Transplanting Watermelon Seedlings

Transplant watermelon seedlings outdoors from April 1 to April 15, ensuring the soil has warmed above 70°F consistently. Space the seedlings 36-48 inches apart in rows with at least 6-8 feet between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Florida’s warm climate requires regular watering to prevent soil from drying out.
  • Water at the base of plants to minimize leaf wetness, which can increase the risk of diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and again when the first fruits start forming. Incorporating compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly monitor for common pests like aphids, cucumber beetles, and diseases such as powdery mildew. Florida’s humid climate can lead to increased pest pressures.
  • Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect watermelon plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest watermelons when they exhibit a dull skin and the tendril closest to the fruit turns brown. Regular harvesting when fruits reach maturity ensures optimal flavor and texture.

The importance of good soil

Before starting to grow it is important to take a step back and find the condition of the soil in your garden,The optimal soil is a blend that includes the mineral-rich dirt along with organicrich organic matter that plants need to thrive.


In my garden I try to compost as mutch as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient ritch compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you dont have the time or space for composting, it is possible to get compost ready to use in garden centers and Community Composting.
You can read more on Community Composting here: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/community-composting

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

If you are uncertain of the quality of your soil, you can get easy to use soil tests at amazon for 17 dollars. Check latest prices here: Soil testing kit.

Also remember to check out how much sunlight your growing area gets, and that the rain drains well. If you treat your soil well and plan you crops according to your climate you will succeed with any plant you want.

The satisfaction when you harvest your own produce is well worth the time you put in 🙂

BeeJay
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