Growing Watermelon

Best Planting Times for Watermelon in Wyoming

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

Wyoming’s climate presents unique challenges and opportunities for watermelon growth. With USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 3b to 6a, it’s important to consider the significant temperature variations throughout the year.

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Useful Tools for Starting Watermelons Indoors

Using the right tools can enhance your success with watermelon cultivation.

Seeds

High-quality seeds are crucial for healthy growth. Starting with quality seeds gives your watermelons the best chance of thriving.
5 pack of different Melon Seeds
Browse Watermelon Seeds on Amazon

Planting Trays

Planting trays ensure your seedlings have enough space to grow before being transplanted outdoors, thereby increasing survival rates.
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Grow Lights

Grow lights are vital for healthy seedlings, especially when natural sunlight is inadequate.
Grow Lights Image
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Seed Starting Soil

Using light, porous seed starting soil helps young roots establish and promotes healthy growth.
Seed Starting Soil Image
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Greenhouse Growing

In Wyoming’s fluctuating climate, a greenhouse can stabilize growing conditions for watermelons. It allows for an extended growing season, protection from unexpected weather, and the ability to grow throughout the year with proper climate management.

For optimal results, consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199. This investment will ensure your watermelons grow in a controlled environment.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

To ensure healthy watermelon growth in Wyoming, using high-quality fertilizer can replenish soil nutrients and promote vigorous growth.
Fertilizer Image
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Start planting watermelons outdoors in Wyoming about 1-2 weeks after the last frost date to ensure optimal soil warmth for germination.

Average Last Frost Dates for Wyoming’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
CheyenneMay 20
CasperMay 25
LaramieMay 22
GilletteMay 30
JacksonJune 5

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 Wyoming:

Broccoli Planting in Wyoming

Pumpkin Planting in Wyoming

Tomato Planting in Wyoming

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

Starting Watermelon Indoors

In cities like Cheyenne (Zone 5b), 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 24-36 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. Wyoming’s varying climate necessitates regular watering, especially 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. Although Wyoming has a drier climate, pest vigilance is essential.
  • Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect watermelon plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest watermelons when they reach the desired size and have a dull skin finish. A yellow spot on the bottom indicates ripeness. Regular harvesting promotes continuous fruiting and prevents over-mature fruits.

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 organic-rich organic matter that plants need to thrive.


In my garden I try to compost as much as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient-rich compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you don’t 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 your 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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