30 Pcs Organic Watermelon Sugar Baby Seeds- Incredibly Sweet and Rich Non GMO - CITRULLUS LANATUS-V085

Binomial Name: Citrullus lanatus

Watermelon Variety:  Sugar Baby

Season: Annual

Zones :3-9

DAys to Maturity: 75-80

Spacing : 18-36"

Soil: Well Draining Ph 6.5-7.5

Optimal Temp: 75-85 F (23-29C)

Days to germination: 7-10

Sun : Full

Sugar Baby is an early season watermelon, coming to maturity approximately 75-80 days after germination. The small size of the fruits, and relatively short time to harvest, make Sugar Baby one of the easier varieties to cultivate. Sugar Baby melons typically do not exceed 10 pounds, with flavor red flesh and a light green rind with dark stripes.

Citrullus lanatus, or Sugar Baby watermelon, is an incredibly productive grower as well. Sugar Baby melons are round “picnic” or “icebox” watermelons perfect for small families and as the name suggests, small enough to fit into the icebox. They weigh in at between 8 to 10 pounds and are 7-8 inches across.

GROWING 

Indoor Starting

As they require a long growing season, watermelons are best started indoors approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the last frost of the season. Sow seeds 1/4" deep in flats or small pots, sowing 3 seeds per pot. Keep medium moist while awaiting germination. Additionally, watermelon seeds will show better germination rates with heat. Keep the soil between 80-90 degrees F (26-32 C), using a heat mat if necessary. Seed should begin to germinate within 7-10 days.

 

Once seeds start to germinate, lower soil temp slightly to the mid 70s (21 C), for 1-2 weeks, also decreasing water. Thin to one plant per cell or pot. Once the first set of true leaves has developed, reduce watering once more, but do not allow plant to become desiccated.

 

Harden plant by gradually exposing to outdoor conditions. Transplant to permanent site in late spring after the last frost has passed. If possible, transplant on an overcast day to minimize wilting and create a more amenable environment for your young plant.

 

Outdoor Starting

If you have long, hot growing seasons, melons can direct-seed into garden. To ensure ripening in areas with shorter growing seasons and cooler weather, choose fast-maturing varieties, start plants inside, use black or IRT plastic mulch to warm soil and use fabric row covers to protect plants.

 

Direct-seed 1 to 2 weeks after average last frost when soil is 70 F (21 C) or warmer. Plant 1 inch deep, 6 seeds per hill, hills 4 to 6 feet apart; or 1 foot apart in rows 5 feet apart. Can plant at closer spacings if trellised. Thin to 2 to 3 plants per hill.

 

Choosing a Site

Prefers warm, well-drained, soil, high in organic matter with pH 6.5 to 7.5. Consistent, plentiful moisture needed until fruit is about the size of a tennis ball. Soil temperatures below 50 F (10 C) slow growth. Consider using black plastic and fabric row covers to speed soil warming. Sandy or light-textured soils that warm quickly in spring are best.

 

In many areas, successful crops require starting plants indoors, using plastic mulch to warm soil, and fabric row covers to protect young transplants.