Growing Watermelon

Best Planting Times for Watermelons in Tennessee

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 15 – May 15
Transplant OutdoorsJune 1 – June 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Watermelon Planting Conditions

Tennessee’s climate is characterized by warm summers and mild winters, with the USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 5b to 8a, making it suitable for watermelon cultivation. However, fluctuations in temperature and humidity can pose challenges.

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Greenhouse Benefits for Watermelons

In Tennessee’s hot climate, utilizing a greenhouse for watermelon planting offers numerous advantages. It provides controlled temperatures that can promote faster growth and earlier fruiting by extending the growing season. Greenhouses also protect plants from pests and diseases while shielding them from extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or harsh sun, which can damage the fruits.

Fertilizer

For optimal watermelon growth in Tennessee, using a balanced fertilizer can ensure robust and healthy plants. Quality fertilizers replenish soil nutrients and promote vigorous growth, leading to a more abundant harvest.
Fertilizer Image
Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

Other planting guides for Tennessee:

Broccoli Planting in Tennessee

Pumpkin Planting in Tennessee

Tomato Planting in Tennessee

Any questions on growing cucumbers? Visit our forum to discuss: Gardening Forum.

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

Average Last Frost Dates for Tennessee’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
NashvilleApril 15
MemphisApril 10
KnoxvilleApril 20
ChattanoogaApril 15

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 Tennessee (Zone 7a), begin indoor watermelon seed starting between April 1 and April 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation by mid to late May when the danger of frost has passed.

Transplanting Watermelon Seedlings

Transplant watermelon seedlings outdoors from May 15 to June 1, ensuring the soil temperature is consistently above 70°F. Space seedlings 36-42 inches apart in rows that are at least 6 feet apart to accommodate their sprawling habits.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil moist, particularly during dry spells typical of Tennessee’s summer heat.
  • Water at the base of the plants to minimize leaf wetness and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and again when the first watermelons start to form. Using compost before planting can improve soil nutrients and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly check for common pests like cucumber beetles and aphids as well as diseases such as powdery mildew. The Tennessee climate can attract various pests, making vigilance crucial.
  • Utilize organic or integrated pest management strategies to safeguard watermelon plants from infestations and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest watermelons when they reach maturity—look for a dull skin and a yellow ground spot. Regular harvesting encourages a good yield and ensures optimal taste.

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

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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