Citrullus lanatus
TAXONOMY
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusCitrullus
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Citrullus lanatus, commonly known as watermelon, is a flowering plant species in the family Cucurbitaceae. It is native to Africa and is widely cultivated for its large edible fruit. Watermelons are annual plants that thrive in seasonally dry tropical climates. They are known for their sweet, juicy flesh and are a popular summer fruit.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Afghan-Melon
Bastard-Melon
Cucurbita Anguria
Cucurbita Caffra
Cucurbita Gigantea
Cucurbita Pinnatifida
Melon D'eau
Momordica Lanata
Pastque
Watermelon
Anguria citrullus
Citrulle laineux
Citrullus anguria
Citrullus aquosus
Citrullus battich
Citrullus caffrorum
Citrullus chodospermus
Citrullus citrullus
Citrullus colocynthis var. capensis
Citrullus colocynthis var. lanatus
Citrullus edulis
Citrullus lanatus f. amarus
Citrullus lanatus f. nigro-seminius
Citrullus lanatus subsp. cordophanus
Citrullus lanatus subsp. mucosospermus
Citrullus lanatus var. albidus
Citrullus lanatus var. caffrorum
Citrullus lanatus var. capensis
Citrullus lanatus var. cordophanus
Citrullus lanatus var. fistulosus
Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus
Citrullus lanatus var. minor
Citrullus lanatus var. oblongus
Citrullus lanatus var. pulcherrimus
Citrullus lanatus var. pumilus
Citrullus lanatus var. rotundus
Citrullus lanatus var. senegalicus
Citrullus lanatus var. shami
Citrullus lanatus var. variegatus
Citrullus lanatus var. virgatus
Citrullus lanatus var. viridis
Citrullus mucosospermus var. senegalicus
Citrullus pasteca
Citrullus vulgaris
Citrullus vulgaris var. caffrorum
Colocynthis amarissima
Colocynthis citrullus
Cucumis amarissimus
Cucumis citrullus
Cucumis citrullus var. jace
Cucumis citrullus var. pasteca
Cucumis dissectus
Cucumis edulis
Cucumis laciniosus
Cucumis vulgaris
Cucurbita citrullus
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,350
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Watermelons require full sun and warm temperatures to grow well. They need consistent watering, especially during fruit development, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. They thrive in moderate temperatures and prefer a humid environment.Harvest
Watermelons (Citrullus lanatus) are typically ready to harvest about 80 to 100 days after planting, with the average being around 90 days. To determine if a watermelon is ready for harvest, check for a few key indicators: the tendril closest to the fruit should be dry and brown, the spot where the fruit touches the ground should turn a creamy yellow, and the fruit should produce a deep, hollow sound when tapped. Harvest by cutting the fruit from the vine with a sharp knife or pruners, leaving about 2 inches of stem attached to the fruit. Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising.Soil
Watermelons prefer well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support the plant's high nutrient needs. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and root diseases.Fertilizer
Watermelons benefit from a balanced fertilizer with a higher potassium content, such as 5-10-10. Fertilize the plants at planting time and again when the vines begin to run. Additional feeding may be necessary during the growing season to support fruit development.Repotting
Watermelons are typically grown directly in the ground or in large containers. If starting seeds indoors, transplant the seedlings to their final location once they have a few true leaves and the risk of frost has passed. Handle the seedlings carefully to avoid damaging the roots.Propagation
Watermelons are propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the ground or start them indoors a few weeks before the last frost date. Plant the seeds in warm soil and keep them moist until germination. Thin the seedlings to allow enough space for growth.Pruning
Pruning watermelon vines can help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. Remove any dead or diseased leaves and trim back excessive growth to focus the plant's energy on fruit production. Prune the vines early in the morning when they are less turgid.Toxicity
Watermelons are not toxic to pets or humans. All parts of the plant, including the fruit, seeds, and rind, are safe to consume. However, the seeds should be eaten in moderation as they can be a choking hazard for small children and pets.Additional
To ensure a good harvest, consider using mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Watermelons are heavy feeders, so regular feeding and proper soil management are crucial for optimal growth and fruit production.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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