Have you ever wondered about the size of those adorable “Sugar Baby” watermelons you see at the farmer’s market or garden center? These little melons are perfect for small families, single servings, or anyone who wants a manageable watermelon. Let’s dive into the sweet details of just how big these Sugar Baby watermelons get.
What is a Sugar Baby Watermelon?
The Sugar Baby watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a compact and sweet variety that’s easy to handle and store. It’s known for its high sugar content, which is measured using “brix” levels. Sugar Baby watermelons typically have a brix measurement of around 10.2, making them one of the sweetest watermelon types you can grow.
These watermelons are early-maturing, which means you can harvest them in about 70 to 80 days. This quick growth and compact size make them a favorite among gardeners, especially those with limited space.
Size and Weight of Sugar Baby Watermelons
Sugar Baby watermelons are considered “icebox” or “picnic” watermelons because of their smaller size. On average, a fully grown Sugar Baby watermelon weighs between 8 to 10 pounds (4-5 kg). They usually measure about 7 to 8 inches (18-20 cm) in diameter. This makes them easy to carry and store in your refrigerator.
While some Sugar Baby watermelons can reach up to 10 pounds, they generally stay within the 7 to 10-pound range. This consistent size is one reason why they are so popular with home gardeners and small families.
Appearance and Characteristics
Sugar Baby watermelons have a distinctive appearance. The rind comes in two color variations: dark green with lighter green veins, or deep green with darker shades of veins. Inside, you’ll find a sea of red, crisp flesh that is firm and crunchy, dotted with small, dark seeds. Some varieties are nearly seedless.
The flesh is not only crisp and refreshing but also packed with sweetness. The thin rind and the vibrant red color of the flesh make it an attractive and delicious treat.
Growing Sugar Baby Watermelons
If you’re thinking of growing Sugar Baby watermelons, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Climate: Sugar Baby melons thrive in warm, dry temperatures, similar to Mediterranean climates.
- Starting Seeds: Start seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before the outdoor planting time.
- Soil: Use rich, well-draining soil amended with compost and composted manure.
- Sunlight: Plant them in an area with at least eight hours of sun exposure per day.
- Spacing: Ensure each plant has about 60 square feet of space to spread out, as the vines can grow 12 feet or longer.
- Watering: Consistent irrigation is essential. Drip irrigation is recommended to avoid fungal diseases.
- Pollination: These melons are pollinated by bees. If pollination is insufficient, hand-pollinate by transferring pollen from male to female flowers using a small paintbrush or cotton swab.
Benefits of Growing Sugar Baby Watermelons
There are many reasons to choose Sugar Baby watermelons for your garden:
- Compact Size: Perfect for small gardens or gardeners who want a manageable melon.
- Early Maturing: Ready to harvest in just 70 to 80 days.
- Sweetness: High brix levels mean they are incredibly sweet.
- Good Productivity: Each plant can produce two or three melons.
- Versatile: Can be trained to grow on a trellis, making them suitable for even smaller spaces.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
Like all watermelons, Sugar Babies are susceptible to certain issues:
- Fungal Diseases: Crop rotation and fungicide applications can help reduce the risk.
- Pests: Cucumber beetles can be controlled by hand picking, rotenone applications, or floating row covers. Aphids and nematodes can also be a problem.
- Lack of Pollination: Hand-pollinate if bee activity is low to ensure fruit set.
By taking these precautions, you can ensure a healthy and productive Sugar Baby watermelon crop.
Conclusion
Sugar Baby watermelons are a delightful addition to any garden or kitchen. Their convenient size, typically weighing between 7 to 10 pounds and measuring about 7 to 8 inches in diameter, makes them perfect for small families and single servings. With their exceptional sweetness and relatively quick growth, they’re an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.