Growing Watermelon

Best Planting Times for Watermelons in Kansas

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 15 – May 15
Transplant OutdoorsMay 30 – June 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Watermelon Planting Conditions

Kansas has a temperate climate with distinct seasons, which can affect the growing conditions for watermelon. The USDA Hardiness Zones range from 5b to 6a, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for cultivation.

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Useful Tools for Starting Watermelons Indoors

Using the right tools can save you time and increase your success rate.

Seeds

Quality seeds lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your watermelons the best chance to thrive from the very beginning.
5 pack of different Melon Seeds
Browse Watermelon Seeds on Amazon

Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before you transplant them outdoors. This makes the process more efficient and increases the chances of strong, healthy plants.
Planting Trays Image
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Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light they need to grow strong and healthy, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Grow Lights Image
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Seed Starting Soil

Using light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth. It’s an easy way to give your seedlings the best start possible.
Seed Starting Soil Image
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Greenhouse Growing

In Kansas, a greenhouse provides an ideal environment for watermelon growth by moderating temperature extremes and protecting plants from harsh weather. It allows for an extended growing season and higher yields through controlled conditions.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to ensure your watermelons thrive in a controlled environment.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

For optimal watermelon growth in Kansas, supplementing with fertilizer can ensure abundant and healthy harvests. Quality fertilizer helps replenish nutrients in the soil and promotes vigorous plant growth.
Fertilizer Image
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Plant watermelons outdoors in Kansas approximately 2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Kansas’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
WichitaApril 15
TopekaApril 20
Kansas CityApril 15
LawrenceApril 25
Overland ParkApril 25

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

Other planting guides for Kansas:

Broccoli Planting in Kansas

Pumpkin Planting in Kansas

Tomato Planting in Kansas

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

Starting Watermelon Indoors

In Kansas (Zone 6a), begin indoor watermelon seed starting from April 15 to May 15. This timeline ensures robust seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late May to early June, after the last frost has passed.

Transplanting Watermelon Seedlings

Transplant watermelon seedlings outdoors from May 25 to June 10, ensuring the soil temperature is consistently above 65°F. Space the seedlings 36-42 inches apart in rows with at least 60 inches between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Ensure consistent and deep watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Kansas experiences variable weather, so regular monitoring and watering are essential to avoid stress on plants.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid wetting leaves, which helps reduce the risk of diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Use a balanced fertilizer during planting and when fruits begin to form. Adding compost before planting can significantly improve soil quality and fertility.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Keep an eye out for common pests such as cucumber beetles and aphids. Regular checks are crucial for effective pest management.
  • Employ organic or integrated pest management strategies to keep watermelon plants healthy and productive.

Harvesting

  • Harvest watermelons when they have a uniform color and the skin feels dull. Regular harvesting encourages ongoing production and prevents overripening.

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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