Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily
Select well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
Test soil pH and aim for 6.0 to 6.8
Work compost or aged manure into the soil before planting
Wait until soil temperature reaches at least 70°F
Plant after all danger of frost has passed
Space plants 3 to 5 feet apart in rows 6 to 8 feet apart
Dig holes slightly larger than the root ball
Place each watermelon plant at the same depth it was growing in its container
Fill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the plant
Water thoroughly after planting
Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruit development
Avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk
Fertilize with a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer as needed
Provide room for vines to spread
Protect young plants from pests and cold weather
Remove weeds regularly
Support fruit if needed on trellises with slings
Harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit turns brown and the underside spot turns yellow