Living in the State of Mississippi is an expert in the art of growing watermelons. He has said that watermelons will really thrive when planted in a sandy loamy soil. We hope, if you want to start growing watermelons, that your soil will be suitable. If it isn't, there are ways to make it so.
For clay soils, the addition of sand, manure, compost and leaves will help to break up the soil. This will also help with drainage. Growing watermelons need a lot of water, but shouldn't be flooded or planted in a place where water will stand and not drain.
Your growing watermelons will need fertilizer when the plants begin to flower. Begin adding a cup of compost tea around each plant, about once every three weeks.
When growing watermelons in your home garden, you need to know that watermelons take up a lot of room. The plants should be at least three feet apart and have ample running space for the vines.
You can start growing watermelons as soon as soil temperatures reach 65 degrees. Watermelons need lots of sun and a long growing season. If you live in a region that has a short growing season, start the seeds inside, about six weeks before it's time to plant them outside.
Watermelons don't like to be transplanted; so sowing seeds directly in the ground is best. Next best is starting the seed in peat pots. The growing watermelons, in the peat pots, can be put directly in the ground without disturbing the plant.
And of course, mulch, mulch, mulch. Mulching helps retain precious moisture, retards weeds and keeps the growing watermelons off the ground.