15 Seeds

Grow Red Citron Watermelon from fresh Citrullus lanatus melon seeds. Citron Red Seeded is a centuries old watermelon grown for its use in making preserves & sweet meats, used in fruitcakes, cookies and puddings. This melon is very productive and even the best fruit can last up to a whole year. Each melon can weigh up to 11 pounds and measure up to 7 inches in diameter.

The plants themselves will grow to a mature height of roughly 8 to 10 inches tall and will grow outwards taking up about 8 to 10 feet or so. Each vine will produce somewhere between 2 or 3 melons, depending on growing conditions. These juicy snacks will be ready for harvesting in about 80 days after first sprouts appear.

It's no shocker that the Watermelon is consisted of roughly 95 to 96 percent water, the other 5 to 6 percent is mainly sugar. There are a few health benefits when eating Watermelons, some of which you might not even know of. Citrullus lanatus is known to lower risk of cancer, as well as preventing asthma because of its Vitamin C contents. But it doesn't stop there, Watermelon is also great for muscle soreness, healthy skin, reduced blood pressure and can also regulate the digestive system.

Sowing The Seed

You should know that Watermelons require plenty of space to grow, so make sure you clear some space for planting. In warmer climates, start indoors 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Sow in peat pots, at a depth of 1/2" to 1" under topsoil. Transplant entire pots when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. You can direct sow outdoors in cooler climates. (Check "Germination & Growth" for spacing and plant information.)

Growing Conditions

Because Watermelons thrive in warmer climates, it is recommended to place the plants in an area that receives full sunlight for the majority of the day. For optimal germination and growth, temperatures should be kept between 72F and 80F. The soil should be rich, but also well drained, with a pH level between 6 and 6.8. Add a light compost to hard compacted soil to increase drainage. Water daily until germination has occurred.

Germination & Growth

Your Watermelon seeds will begin to sprout within as little as 7 to 14 days after sowing, vining outwards to take up an area of 8 to 10 feet. Plants should be spaced 3 to 5 feet apart, while rows should be spaced 5 to 8 feet apart. Harvest these delicious fruits roughly 80 days after the first sprouts appear, or when the bottom spot turns from white to yellow.