Growing Watermelon

Watermelon Planting Dates in Rhode Island

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

Planting Conditions

Watermelon Planting Conditions

Rhode Island’s temperate climate provides a unique growing environment for watermelons. With USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 6a to 7b, there’s a distinct growing season ideal for cultivating watermelon plants.

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Greenhouse Benefits in Cold States

Utilizing a greenhouse in Rhode Island helps mitigate the effects of the shorter growing season and provides a controlled environment for optimal conditions. With a greenhouse, you can extend the growing season, protect plants from unexpected frosts, and improve plant health throughout the year.

Fertilizer

For optimal watermelon growth in Rhode Island, using a quality fertilizer can support healthy plant development and abundant harvests. Fertilizer replenishes essential nutrients in the soil, promoting vigorous growth and fruit development.
Fertilizer Image
Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

Other planting guides for Rhode Island:

Broccoli Planting in Rhode Island

Pumpkin Planting in Rhode Island

Tomato Planting in Rhode Island

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

Plant watermelons outdoors in Rhode Island approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough to support seed germination and plant growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Rhode Island’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
ProvidenceMay 9
WarwickMay 12
CranstonMay 11
PawtucketMay 12
East ProvidenceMay 10

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

Starting Watermelons Indoors

In Rhode Island (Zone 6a), begin indoor watermelon seed starting between April 15 and May 1. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from mid-May to early June once the risk of frost has passed.

Transplanting Watermelon Seedlings

Transplant watermelon seedlings outdoors from May 20 to June 5, ensuring the soil has warmed above 70°F consistently. Space the seedlings 36-48 inches apart in rows with at least 6 feet between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Rhode Island’s humid climate can benefit from thorough watering during dry spells.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and 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 powdery mildew. While Rhode Island has varying humidity levels, pest vigilance is essential.
  • Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect watermelon plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest watermelons when they have a dull skin and the tendril closest to the fruit turns brown. Regularly checking for ripeness promotes the best flavor and sweetness.

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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