Watermelon
Citrullus lanatus
Fast-growing annual vine; compact varieties can be container grown.
🌞 Light & Temperature
Light: Full sun (6–8+ h)
Temperature: 22–34°C
🪴 Pot & Soil
Pot: 60–90 L pot per plant; sturdy trellis for small-fruited varieties.
Soil Mix: Rich, sandy loam mix; pH 6–6.8
💧 Watering
Schedule: Dry season: 2–3x/week; Rainy season: weekly if no rain
Amount: 4–6 L per watering
Keep evenly moist until fruit set; reduce slightly during ripening to enhance sweetness.
🧪 Fertilizing
Type: Vegetable fertilizer shifting to higher K & Ca
Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks
Dosage: 40–60 g/2–3 weeks for 60–90 L pot
🍓 Fruiting & Harvest
Start: 2–3 months from sowing
Seasonality: Best in drier months
Duration: 30–45 days from pollination
Harvest Indicators: Ground spot turns creamy yellow; nearest tendril browns; hollow sound on tap
Tips: Support trellised fruits in slings; avoid overwatering near harvest.
🌱 Propagation
Seeds; direct sow or transplant seedlings
🐛 Pests & Diseases
- Aphids/whiteflies: Sticky traps; neem 1%.
- Powdery mildew: Prune for airflow; sulfur or potassium bicarb sprays.
🌦️ Seasonal Notes (Malaysia)
Provide rain cover where possible to reduce disease; ensure strong sunlight.
📝 Planting Notes
Grow single plant per large pot for best results.
💡 Extra Care Tips
- Hand-pollinate early morning for better set
- Mulch to maintain soil warmth
Note
Schedules are guidelines—adjust for your microclimate, pot size, and weather. During heavy monsoon rain, reduce watering and improve drainage.