When to Plant Watermelons
As a summer delicacy, the timing of planting watermelons and cultivation techniques directly affect the quality of the fruit. Mastering scientific planting methods can not only improve the fruit setting rate but also allow you to harvest sweet and juicy watermelons in different seasons. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the entire watermelon planting process, unlocking core techniques from seed selection to harvest.
Complete Analysis of Watermelon Planting Time
The Best Time for Outdoor Planting
It is crucial to arrange planting time according to the characteristics of the variety: - Early-maturing varieties (such as Jingxin No. 1) are suitable for planting in March, with ground temperatures stable at 15°C or above - Mid-maturing varieties (such as Xinong No. 8) are recommended to be sown from April to June, using the double-vine pruning method - Late-maturing varieties (such as Black Diamond) should be planted in July, accompanied by sunshade net protection
Greenhouse Planting Time Control
Facility cultivation can extend the production cycle: - Autumn extension cultivation: Planting at the end of July to the beginning of August, with the market launch after National Day - Winter-spring crop cultivation: Seedlings in December, using ground heating cables - Multi-layer coverage technology can advance the harvest period by 20-30 days
Four-Step Method for Watermelon Cultivation Techniques
Seed Treatment and Activation
Use warm water soaking combined with chemical treatment: 1. Maintain a 55°C constant water bath for 15 minutes, stirring continuously during this period 2. Transfer to 30°C clear water and soak for 8 hours, changing water every 2 hours 3. Disinfect with a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution for 20 minutes 4. Wrap with wet gauze and place in an incubator at 28-30°C
Intelligent Germination Management
Modern germination technology improves efficiency: - Light control: 6 hours of scattered light exposure per day - Humidity maintenance: Air humidity of 85%-90% - Splitting chest treatment: Transplant promptly when the radicle reaches 0.5 cm
New Substrate Cultivation Solution
Recommended nutrient soil formula: - Peat: Perlite: Vermiculite = 3:1:1 - Add 15 kg of decomposed sheep manure and 2 kg of superphosphate per cubic meter - Adjust the pH value to 6.0-6.8 After planting, cover with black plastic mulch to increase ground temperature by 3-5°C
Accurate Water and Fertilizer Management
Use a drip irrigation system for scientific management: - Stretching period: Apply 5 kg of balanced water-soluble fertilizer per mu - Fruit expansion period: Apply high-potassium fertilizer and supplement calcium and magnesium elements - Control water 15 days before maturity to enhance sugar accumulation
By precisely controlling planting points and technological innovation, it is possible to achieve annual watermelon production (G-Y). It is recommended that farmers choose disease-resistant, commercially superior varieties according to local climatic characteristics, combined with integrated water and fertilizer management, to cultivate high-quality watermelons weighing 8-15 kg per fruit. Regular crop rotation and soil disinfection can effectively prevent wilt disease, helping you achieve stable profits.