How to Grow Square Watermelons: A Unique Twist on a Classic Fruit
Watermelons are a classic summer fruit, loved by many for their sweet and juicy flesh. But have you ever heard of square watermelons? These unique fruits are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also offer practical benefits in terms of storage and transportation. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of growing your own square watermelons.
What Are Square Watermelons?
Square watermelons are exactly what the name suggests - watermelons that have been grown in a square shape instead of the traditional round shape. This is achieved by placing the young fruit inside a square mold as it grows on the vine. The mold will then shape the fruit as it continues to grow, resulting in a square watermelon.
Why Grow Square Watermelons?
Aside from their unique shape, there are practical benefits to growing square watermelons. Because of their shape, they can be stacked easily without rolling around, making them ideal for transportation and storage. Additionally, their shape makes them easier to cut into even slices for serving, without the need to worry about the melon rolling off the cutting board.
How to Grow Square Watermelons
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grow your own square watermelons:
Step 1: Choose the Right Variety
Not all watermelon varieties are suitable for growing in molds, so it's important to choose the right one. Look for a variety that has a relatively short growing season and is small enough to fit inside a mold. Some popular varieties for growing square watermelons include Sugar Baby, Crimson Sweet, and Black Diamond.
Step 2: Make or Purchase a Mold
You can either make your own mold out of wood, plastic, or metal, or purchase one online. The mold should be approximately the size of a square box and made of a material that won't damage the fruit as it grows. It should also have drainage holes to prevent water from pooling inside.
Step 3: Prepare the Soil
Watermelons need well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. If your soil is heavy or compacted, consider adding compost or other organic amendments to improve its structure. Watermelons also require a lot of space, so make sure to plant them in an area with plenty of room to spread out.
Step 4: Plant the Seeds
Plant watermelon seeds directly in the ground once the soil has warmed up to at least 70°F. You can also start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date and transplant them outside once the weather has warmed up. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows spaced 6 feet apart.
Step 5: Insert the Fruit into the Mold
Once the fruit reaches about the size of the mold, carefully insert it into the mold and secure it in place. Make sure the mold is level and secure to prevent the fruit from becoming misshapen as it grows.
Step 6: Monitor and Care for the Fruit
As the fruit continues to grow, monitor it regularly to make sure it stays healthy and doesn't outgrow the mold. Water the plant deeply once a week, and fertilize it with an all-purpose fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Once the fruit is fully formed, remove it from the mold and let it ripen on the vine until it is ready to harvest.
Growing square watermelons is a fun and unique twist on a classic fruit. With a little bit of patience and care, you can grow your own square watermelons and impress your friends and family with their unusual shape. So why not give it a try this growing season?
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