Choose a watermelon variety suited to your climate and growing season
Start seeds indoors 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors after frost danger passes
Use biodegradable pots or seed trays with well-draining seed-starting mix
Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep
Keep soil consistently warm, around 70 to 95 F
Water lightly to keep the soil moist but not soggy
Place seedlings in full sunlight or under strong grow lights
Harden off seedlings for 7 to 10 days before transplanting outdoors
Transplant seedlings only when soil is warm and nighttime temperatures stay above 50 F
Space plants 3 to 5 feet apart in rows or hills
Choose a location with full sun and loose, fertile, well-draining soil
Mix compost or aged manure into the planting area before planting
Water deeply at the base of the plant
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Feed with a balanced fertilizer early, then switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer after vines begin spreading
Train vines to grow in open space
Hand-pollinate flowers if pollinators are scarce
Reduce watering as fruits mature to improve sweetness
Support developing fruit if growing vertically
Harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit turns brown and the underside of the melon turns creamy yellow