How To Plant Watermelons In The Ground

You can plant watermelons in the ground by choosing the right spot, preparing the soil, and giving the vines plenty of room to sprawl.
 
Watermelons are warm-season plants that absolutely love the heat, so planting watermelons in the ground works best when the soil has warmed up and the danger of frost has passed.
 
When you plant watermelons in the ground the right way, you set yourself up for a harvest of sweet, juicy fruit that tastes way better than anything from the store.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to plant watermelons in the ground, from picking the perfect location to caring for your vines as they grow.
 
Let’s dig in so you can plant watermelons in the ground with confidence.
 

How to Plant Watermelons in the Ground

To plant watermelons in the ground successfully, you’ll want to start with timing, location, and soil prep before you ever bury a seed.
 
Here’s how to get it right step by step.
 

1. Wait for the Right Time and Temperature

Watermelons need warm soil to germinate, ideally around 70°F or higher.
 
If you plant watermelons in the ground too early, the seeds will just sit there and rot instead of sprouting.
 
The best time to plant watermelons in the ground is about two weeks after your last expected frost date.
 
If you’re starting seeds indoors, you can plant watermelons in the ground once the seedlings have two or three true leaves and the weather has settled.
 

2. Pick a Spot With Full Sun

When you plant watermelons in the ground, full sun is non-negotiable.
 
Watermelons need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight every day to produce sweet fruit.
 
A spot that gets morning sun and some afternoon shade can work in really hot climates, but more sun is always better when you plant watermelons in the ground.
 

3. Prepare Loose, Rich Soil

Watermelons love loose, well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter.
 
Before you plant watermelons in the ground, mix in some compost or aged manure to give the soil a nutrient boost.
 
You can also mound up the soil into small hills, which helps warm the ground and improves drainage, especially if you plant watermelons in the ground in heavy clay.
 
Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 for the best results.
 

4. Space Your Plants Properly

Watermelon vines spread out a lot, so give them room.
 
If you plant watermelons in the ground in hills, space the hills about six to eight feet apart.
 
If you’re planting in rows, leave five to six feet between plants.
 
Trust me, when you plant watermelons in the ground, overcrowding leads to poor airflow and more disease.
 

5. Plant Seeds or Seedlings at the Right Depth

Plant watermelon seeds about one inch deep, with the pointed end facing down.
 
If you’re transplanting seedlings, set them in the ground at the same depth they were growing in their pot.
 
Water gently after you plant watermelons in the ground to settle the soil around the roots or seeds.
 

Caring for Watermelons After You Plant Them in the Ground

Once you plant watermelons in the ground, the real work begins if you want a healthy harvest.
 
Here’s what to focus on.
 

1. Water Deeply but Not Too Often

Watermelons need about one to two inches of water per week.
 
After you plant watermelons in the ground, water deeply at the base of the plant to encourage deep roots.
 
Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to fungal issues on the leaves.
 

2. Feed the Vines

A balanced fertilizer applied when the vines start running helps them grow strong.
 
Once flowers appear, switch to a formula lower in nitrogen and higher in phosphorus and potassium.
 
This supports fruit development after you plant watermelons in the ground.
 

3. Watch for Pests and Diseases

Aphids, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs love watermelon plants.
 
Keep an eye out and treat problems early with insecticidal soap or row covers.
 
Good airflow and proper spacing help prevent disease when you plant watermelons in the ground.
 

4. Mulch to Retain Moisture

A layer of straw or plastic mulch keeps moisture in and weeds out.
 
Black plastic mulch can also warm the soil, which is a big plus when you plant watermelons in the ground in cooler regions.
 

So, How Do You Plant Watermelons in the Ground?

You plant watermelons in the ground by waiting for warm soil, choosing a sunny spot, amending the soil with compost, and spacing your plants generously.
 
Then you plant the seeds or seedlings at the right depth and keep them watered and fed as they grow.
 
When you plant watermelons in the ground with these steps, you give your vines everything they need to produce sweet, heavy fruit by late summer.
 
So grab your seeds, pick a sunny patch, and get ready to plant watermelons in the ground this season.