WHEN TO PLANT WATERMELONS

• In cool climates with short growing seasons, start seeds indoors 2 to 3 weeks before your last frost date. Plan to transplant seedlings into the garden about 2 weeks after that date.
• In warmer climates with long growing seasons, sow seeds directly outdoors 1 to 2 weeks after your last frost date, as long as the soil temperature has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C). Warmer soil helps prevent poor germination.
• Young watermelon plants can also be bought from nurseries. Plant these after there is no longer a chance of frost occurring. 
• Note: Watermelon seedlings are very tender and should not be transplanted until all danger of frost has passed. Watch the local forecast and err on the side of caution!

CHOOSING AND PREPARING A PLANTING SITE

• Amend soil with aged manure, seaweed, and/or compost before planting. Watermelons are heavy feeders, meaning they need soil that is fertile and has a high nutrient level. Learn more about soil amendments and preparing soil for planting.
• Watermelons do best in loamy, somewhat-sandy, well-drained soil.
• Watermelons prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 (“slightly acidic”).
• Growing the vines in raised rows, known as hills, ensures good drainage and will hold the sun’s heat longer. Plan to space the plants about 2 feet apart in a 5-foot-wide hill. 
• If you’re growing in rows, space 6 feet by 6 feet apart. 

HOW TO PLANT WATERMELONS

• Sow seeds ½ to 1 inch deep outdoors or ¼ to ½ inch deep in seed-starting pots indoors.
• Tip: To allow for greater root growth, use larger starting pots than you would for most seeds. Also consider using compostable pots that can be cut away or planted directly in the garden, as this will minimize the risk of damaging seedlings’ roots during transplanting.
• If direct seeding outdoors, sow 4 to 6 seeds per hill, eventually thinning to 2 to 3 seedlings.