Growing watermelon in Wisconsin might seem like a daunting task , but with right provision and care , you’re able to enjoy a bountiful harvest home of this refreshing summer fruit . By following the right technique and selecting suitable miscellanea , you may successfully grow Citrullus vulgaris in Wisconsin ’s mood .
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Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety
One of the most crucial factors in growing watermelon in Wisconsin is choosing the appropriate variety . unlike watermelon cultivars have varying maturity rates , cold tolerance , and disease resistance , making it essential to take varieties specifically suit for Wisconsin ’s growing conditions .
Here ’s a table compare some popularwatermelon varietiesand their suitability for the realm :
Choosing the correct smorgasbord is crucial for ensuring a successful watermelon harvest in Wisconsin ’s clime . study factor like maturity time , frigid tolerance , and disease resistance to make an informed conclusion .
Cold-Hardy Varieties
Due to Wisconsin ’s cooler temperatures and shorter grow seasons , it ’s essential to select dusty - hardy watermelon vine varieties . These mixture can resist cooler soil temperature and have a shorter adulthood period , allowing them to produce fruit before the first frost .
Some cold - hardy watermelon varieties well - suited for Wisconsin include :
Disease-Resistant Varieties
Wisconsin ’s humid summers can increase the risk of watermelon diseases , ready disease - immune variety show a wise choice . take care for varieties resistant to mutual watermelon vine diseases like :
form like Sugary , Crimson Sweet , and Northern Refresher offer excellent disease resistance , ensuring a healthier crop and higher payoff .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Choosing the right website and develop the soil properly are crucial steps in growing watermelons in Wisconsin . Watermelons thrive in well - drain , fertile soil and take ample sun picture .
insure the planting site get at least 8 hours of lineal sun per twenty-four hours and has good air circulation to foreclose disease buildup . lift beds or sloping domain can ameliorate drainage and filth warmth , which is indispensable for watermelon vine maturation .
Before planting , it ’s indispensable to carry on a dirt test to set the pH tier and nutritious content . watermelon choose a slightly acid soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . If necessary , amend the soil with compost , aged manure , or a balanced fertilizer to ensure optimal nutrient levels .
Sunlight Requirements
watermelon are sun - love industrial plant and call for full sunlight exposure for optimal emergence and fruit production . Aim for a planting website that receives at least 8 hour of direct sunlight per day .
In Wisconsin , it ’s crucial to take a site with maximum sun exposure , as the cool clime can delay plant life emergence and fruit development .
Soil pH and Nutrients
Watermelons flourish in slightly acidulous soil condition with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8 . A soil psychometric test can aid set the current pH level and guide any necessary amendments .
In addition to the right pH , watermelons require fertile land fertile in nutrient like nitrogen , phosphorus , and potassium . integrate well - rot compost or aged manure into the soil before constitute to provide essential nutrients .
Planting and Care
Watermelons can be grown from seeds or transplant , but verbatim seeding is more common in Wisconsin ’s climate . Plant seedsor transplants after the last frost date , typically in later May or early June , when the stain has warmed to at least 70 ° F ( 21 ° C ) .
Planting Time and Spacing
In Wisconsin , it ’s recommended toplant Citrullus vulgaris seedsor transplants between late May and early June , after the danger of Robert Frost has fall . The land temperature should be at least 70 ° F ( 21 ° century ) for optimal germination and ontogenesis .
When planting , distance watermelon vine plants 2 - 3 feet aside in rows space 6 - 8 understructure aside . This spacing allows for proper vine growth and air circulation , reduce disease risk .
Watering and Fertilizing
Watermelons have high water requirements , especially during yield growth . Ensure logical wet by providing 1 - 2 inch of water per workweek , either through rain or irrigation .
Fertilize Citrullus vulgaris plant with a balanced plant food or side - dress with compost or aged manure every 4 - 6 weeks during the growing season .
Pest and Disease Management
Like any crop , watermelons can be susceptible to various pests and disease in Wisconsin ’s climate . vulgar result include :
To manage gadfly and disease , implement the following praxis :
Harvesting and Storage
Knowing when to reap and the right way storing watermelons are essential for ensuring maximum insolence and flavor .
Citrullus vulgaris typically take 80 - 100 days to suppurate , reckon on the variety and growing conditions . check for the next ripeness indicators :
When harvest home , use a sharp-worded knife or pruners to geld the watermelon from the vine , leaving a 2 - inch stem attached to the yield .
Ripeness Indicators
Several signs point when a Citrullus vulgaris is good and quick for harvest :
Paying airless tending to these ripeness indicators will see you harvest Citrullus vulgaris at their superlative flavor and sugariness .
Handling and Storage
After harvesting , handle watermelons with care to prevent bruising and impairment . Store watermelons in a coolheaded , dry office , ideally between 50 - 60 ° F ( 10 - 15 ° deoxycytidine monophosphate ) .
Whole , full-length watermelons can be stored for up to 2 - 3 weeks under optimal condition . Once cut , watermelons should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 - 5 sidereal day for maximal freshness and flavor .
Conclusion
Growing watermelons in Wisconsin need careful planning , salmagundi choice , and right care throughout the growing season . By choose suitable cold - hardy and disease - resistant varieties , preparing the soil appropriately , and following best practice for planting , care , and harvest home , you may love a bountiful harvest of racy , unfermented watermelons right in your Wisconsin garden . With some patience and commitment , you ’ll be able to savor the pleasant-tasting taste sensation of homegrown watermelons in the heart of summer .
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