Watermelon

Watermelon, also known as cavone (Citrullus lanatus), is an annual plant in the cucurbit family, prized for its large, juicy fruits with sweet flesh. Although associated with a warm climate, thanks to the right varieties and proper care, it can be successfully grown in Poland.

Watermelon varieties recommended for cultivation in Poland:

• Rosario F1: An early variety, setting fruit well at lower temperatures, perfect for growing in the ground in Poland. The fruit is quite large, weighing 3-4 kg, with a dark green skin and pink-red, juicy flesh.

• Janosik: A mid-early variety, with elliptical-round fruits weighing 3.5-5.5 kg. It is characterized by yellow, juicy flesh and is resistant to diseases.

• Gold of Wolica: A very early variety, giving fruits with yellow skin and red flesh. It tolerates lower temperatures well, which makes it suitable for cultivation in the Polish climate.

Cultivation requirements:

• Position: Watermelons prefer sunny and warm positions, sheltered from the wind. In colder regions of Polish, it is recommended to grow under cover, such as polytunnels or greenhouses.

• Soil: They grow best on fertile, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before sowing, it is worth enriching the substrate with compost or well-decomposed manure.

• Irrigation: Regular watering is crucial, especially during flowering and fruit set. However, excessive flooding should be avoided so as not to lead to root rot.

Sowing and care:

• Sowing: Watermelon seeds are sown in April in pots indoors, and planted in a permanent place in the second half of May, when the risk of frost has passed. You can also sow seeds directly into the ground in May, but growing from seedlings gives better results.

• Spacing: It is recommended to plant the plants at a spacing of 100x100 cm to give them adequate space to grow.

• Care: Regular weeding, loosening the soil and fertilizing with compound fertilizers support the proper development of plants. It is also a good idea to mulch the soil around the plants to maintain moisture and reduce weed growth.

Set:

Watermelon fruits are ready for harvest when their skin takes on an intense color and the sound of tapping is hollow. In Polish climatic conditions, the harvest falls on August and September.