Growing a square watermelon is a fascinating gardening project that turns ordinary fruit into an eye-catching conversation starter. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow a square watermelon, you’re in for a treat! This article will walk you through the process step-by-step, from choosing the right seeds to harvesting your perfectly shaped melon.
What Is a Square Watermelon?
Square watermelons originated in Japan in the 1960s, where farmers wanted to make their watermelons easier to stack and transport. By growing the melons inside cube-shaped molds, the fruit takes on a unique square shape as it matures. Today, square watermelons are often grown as ornamental fruits rather than for eating, since they are usually harvested before fully ripening to extend shelf life.
Why Grow Square Watermelons?
– Fun and educational: Growing square watermelons is a great way to engage kids in gardening and teach them about plant growth and fruit development.
– Novelty and decoration: These unusual melons make a striking centerpiece for summer parties or a unique gift.
– Business opportunity: Square watermelons are rare outside Japan and can be sold at a premium price for ornamental purposes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Growing a Square Watermelon
1. Choose the Right Watermelon Variety
Select a watermelon variety suited to your climate and growing season. Smaller varieties like Sugar Baby or Yellow Petite are ideal because they mature faster and fit better in molds. Early-ripening varieties increase your chances of harvesting a mature melon that’s both square and tasty.
2. Start Seeds Indoors
Start your seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant each seed about an inch deep in moist potting soil. Keep the seedlings in a warm, sunny spot and water regularly until they develop their first true leaves.
3. Prepare Your Garden Soil
Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Watermelons prefer sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. Clear the area of weeds and debris, then amend the soil with compost or aged manure. Till the soil to mix in the amendments and level the ground for planting.
4. Transplant Seedlings Outdoors
Once the soil temperature reaches about 60°F (15°C) and the seedlings are hardened off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, transplant them into your garden. Space plants about 15 to 20 square feet apart to allow ample room for vines to spread.
5. Use a Square Mold
The key to growing a square watermelon is the mold. When the watermelon fruit is about the size of a softball, gently place it inside a sturdy square mold made from clear plastic, glass, or wood. The mold should be roughly 8 inches square and 12 inches deep, with drainage holes at the bottom to let rainwater escape.
As the watermelon grows, it will fill the mold and take on its shape. Check the mold regularly to ensure it stays secure and adjust if necessary. Water the plant consistently to keep it healthy and support fruit growth.
6. Care and Patience
Watermelons require a long growing season and plenty of water. Focus on growing one fruit per vine by removing extra shoots to concentrate the plant’s energy. Be patient-square watermelons take time to mature fully inside their molds.
7. Harvesting Your Square Watermelon
Once the watermelon has reached its full size and ripeness, carefully remove the mold. Handle the fruit gently to avoid bruising. Your perfectly square watermelon is now ready to be admired, displayed, or eaten if fully ripe.
Tips for Success
– Ensure the mold is transparent so you can monitor the fruit’s growth.
– Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
– Protect your plants from pests and diseases as you would with regular watermelons.
– If growing in a cooler climate, consider using raised beds or plastic mulch to warm the soil.
Growing square watermelons is a delightful blend of science and art. With the right seeds, soil, and mold, you can create a unique fruit that’s sure to impress friends and family.
Enjoy the process and watch your watermelon transform from a simple round fruit to a charming square masterpiece!