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Knowledge/Crops/Watermelon
Fruits

Watermelon

Citrullus lanatus

Watermelon is a flowering plant species of the Cucurbitaceae family, cultivated for its large, edible fruit. The fruit is typically sweet, juicy, and has a high water content, making it a popular choice for hydration. Watermelons are usually round or oblong, with a green rind and red or yellow flesh containing black seeds. They are rich in vitamins A and C, and are often consumed fresh, in salads, or as juice.

Calculate System for Watermelon
400.00–600.00mm
Water Need
120 days
Season
30.00–60.00cm
Root Depth
25,000 kg/ha
Yield
20,000
Plants/ha

Growth Stages

Season: Mar – Aug (120 days)

Initial
Kc 0.400
30 days
Development
Kc 0.700
40 days
Mid-Season
Kc 1.000
60 days
Late
Kc 0.800
30 days

Watermelon requires warm temperatures and full sun for optimal growth. It is sensitive to frost and should be planted after the last frost date. There are several varieties, including seedless and picnic types, each with unique characteristics.

Water Requirements

Season Total: 400.00600.00 mm
Water Stress Sensitivity: High
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Water Productivity: 15.500 kg/m³

Recommended Methods

Drip Irrigation90.00%Fixed Sprinkler70.00%

Soil Compatibility

Optimal pH range: 6.0 – 7.5

Sandy Loam
AWC100.00mm/m
Drainagegood
Drainage: Well-drained soils preferred
Organic Matter: 2.00%
Soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy growth. Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels and amend as necessary.

Climate Compatibility

Temperature range: 15.0°C – 30.0°C

Temperate Continental
ETo: 1.006.00 mm/day
Temp: -20.0°C – 30.0°C
Frost: high
Mediterranean
ETo: 3.007.00 mm/day
Temp: 5.0°C – 35.0°C
Frost: low
Frost Tolerance: Low frost tolerance
Heat Tolerance: Moderate heat tolerance
Watermelon prefers warm climates; protect young plants from cold temperatures. Use row covers if necessary to extend the growing season.

Planting Layout

100.00cm
Row Spacing
50.00cm
Plant Spacing
20,000
Plants per ha

Nutrient Requirements (kg/ha)

Nitrogen (N)150 kg/ha
Phosphorus (P)60 kg/ha
Potassium (K)180 kg/ha
40
Calcium (Ca) kg/ha
25
Magnesium (Mg) kg/ha
20
Sulfur (S) kg/ha
Schedule: Apply nitrogen in 3 splits during growing season
Organic Matter: 2-3% organic matter recommended

Yield Information

25,000
kg/ha
2.500
kg/plant
0.450
Harvest Index
Quality Factors: Size, color, sugar content

Design Your Watermelon Irrigation System

Use our free calculators to plan water requirements, spacing, and system costs for your Watermelon field.

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Related Guides

Introduction: Growing and Irrigating Watermelon

Introduction: Growing and Irrigating Watermelon

Watermelon is a popular and refreshing fruit that is enjoyed by people all over the world. It is not only delicious but also a great choice for agricultural cultivation due to its economic viability. In this article, we will discuss how to grow watermelon and the most efficient methods of irrigating this crop. Why…

Read Guide
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