Method of Growing Watermelon on the Balcony
Growing watermelon on an urban balcony may seem far-fetched, but it is entirely feasible with scientific methods. Potted watermelon not only adds greenery to the home but also allows for the full growth process from seed to fruit. This article will systematically analyze the key points of watermelon cultivation in a home environment, from soil preparation to harvesting techniques.
Preparation Phase for Potted Watermelon Cultivation
Scientific Ratio of Container and Substrate
It is recommended to choose a root control container with a diameter of 45cm or more and a depth of 30cm, with 5-8 drainage holes at the bottom. The substrate should be prepared with a ratio of peat soil: perlite: decomposed sheep manure = 5:3:2, and 50g of slow-release fertilizer should be added per cubic meter. Before planting, pour boiling water over the substrate, cover with plastic film, and seal for 48 hours to complete physical disinfection.
Variety Selection and Seed Treatment
'Golden Beauty' and 'Black Pearl' dwarf varieties are recommended, with individual fruit weight controlled within 2kg. Seeds need to be soaked in 55°C warm water for 15 minutes, then transferred to 30°C clear water for 4 hours. Wrap in wet gauze and place in a 28°C environment to germinate, and sow when over 80% of the seeds show white tips.
Watermelon Growth Cycle Management
Sowing and Seedling Care
Plant seeds at a depth of 2cm, with a spacing of 30cm. Maintain substrate moisture at 60% during the germination period, with a daytime temperature of 25-28°C and a nighttime temperature not lower than 18°C. After the true leaves unfold, apply 1‰ seaweed fertilizer weekly and supplement with LED grow lights for 4 hours daily.
Flowering Pollination and Fruit Setting Management
Manual pollination should be done between 9-11 AM, gently touching the pistil of the female flower with the stamens three times. Retain fruits from the 8-12 node positions of the main vine, limiting to 2 fruits per plant. After fruit setting, apply high-potassium water-soluble fertilizer (N-P-K=12-8-30) at a concentration of 800 times liquid.
Environmental Control and Disease and Pest Prevention
Use a立体 cultivation frame to improve ventilation and install insect nets to block whiteflies. Regularly spray Bacillus subtilis to prevent powdery mildew and hang yellow sticky traps to monitor thrips. Use netting to support the bottom of the fruit during the expansion stage to prevent falling off the vine.
Through about 60 days of careful management, a balcony-grown watermelon plant can achieve a yield of 3-5 pounds. Controlling water 7 days before harvest can increase the sugar content by 2-3 degrees. Gently tapping the fruit with a finger joint, a dull '咚咚' sound indicates maturity. Home cultivation not only yields delicious fruit but also provides an engaging lesson in observing nature for children.