Growing Watermelon

Best Planting Times for Watermelons in West Virginia

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

West Virginia’s varied climate ranges from humid subtropical in the lowland areas to continental in the mountains. The state’s USDA Hardiness Zones mainly fall between 5a and 7a, which influences watermelon planting and growth.

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Useful Tools for Starting Watermelons Indoors

Utilizing the right tools can lead to better growth and successful watermelon cultivation.

Seeds

Choosing high-quality seeds enhances germination rates and leads to stronger plants. Starting with good seeds is crucial for achieving a successful watermelon crop.
5 pack of different Melon Seeds
Browse Watermelon Seeds on Amazon

Planting Trays

Using planting trays organizes your seedlings, providing the necessary space to grow before transplanting them outdoors, promoting healthy and vigorous plants.
Planting Trays Image
Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

For areas with insufficient natural light, grow lights provide crucial illumination for seedlings, enabling strong and healthy growth.
Grow Lights Image
Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Utilizing a light and fine seed starting soil mixture helps young roots establish quickly, promoting optimal growth.
Seed Starting Soil Image
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Greenhouse Growing

In West Virginia, where temperature shifts can impact watermelon growth, a greenhouse offers a controlled environment that stabilizes temperatures, optimizes the growth period, and protects plants from extreme weather changes.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to provide a suitable habitat for your watermelons, enabling year-round cultivation.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

Applying fertilizer is essential for cultivating healthy watermelons in West Virginia, as it replenishes nutrients in the soil, promoting strong growth and abundant yields.
Fertilizer Image
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For successful outdoor planting in West Virginia, wait until approximately 1-2 weeks after the final spring frost date to ensure optimal soil warmth for watermelon growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for West Virginia’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
CharlestonApril 15
HuntingtonApril 20
MorgantownApril 25
WheelingApril 15
ParkersburgApril 25

Disclaimer: These frost dates are averages, and actual conditions may vary. It’s advised to keep an eye on local forecasts and adjust planting accordingly.

Other planting guides for West Virginia:

Broccoli Planting in West Virginia

Pumpkin Planting in West Virginia

Tomato Planting in West Virginia

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

Starting Watermelon Indoors

In West Virginia, begin indoor watermelon seed starting between April 15 and May 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late May to early June once the risk of frost has passed.

Transplanting Watermelon Seedlings

Transplant watermelon seedlings outdoors from June 1 to June 15, ensuring the soil has warmed above 70°F consistently. Space the seedlings 36-42 inches apart in rows with at least 5-6 feet between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during the fruit-setting period. Watering is crucial in West Virginia’s varying humidity levels to prevent stress on plants.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, minimizing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and again during the flowering stage. Incorporating compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly monitor for common pests such as aphids, cucumber beetles, and powdery mildew. Vigilance is important to protect watermelons from pests and diseases.
  • Utilize organic or integrated pest management methods to safeguard watermelon plants against threats.

Harvesting

  • Harvest watermelons when they reach the desired size and exhibit a uniform color. Regular harvesting is essential for preventing overripening and promoting better quality fruit.

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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