Growing watermelons in Texas can be a rewarding experience, but it is crucial to understand the best times to plant them. The two most important factors that determine when you should plant your watermelon are the climate of North and South Texas and the length of your growing season. Watermelons can be planted in the spring in central Texas. They can be planted slightly later in other areas. This article will discuss when to plant watermelon in Texas. We’ll look at which factors to consider before determining the correct planting time for your area.
When to plant watermelon in Texas
The exact time to plant watermelons depends largely on your area’s climate. In general, watermelons should be planted in North Texas when the soil temperature is above 65°F and in South Texas no earlier than February. Typically, a good planting time for watermelon in North Texas is around mid-April to May, while in South Texas, it can range from late March to early May.
Watermelons are affected by frost, so you’ll need to wait until after the last frost date to plant your watermelon. If you plan a late crop, you can sow the seeds at least sixty-five days before the first frost, depending on what watermelon you are growing. Some melons take up to ninety dates to grow and mature, so you’ll need to ensure they have time to reach maturity and be harvested before the first frost.
The length of your growing season is also important when deciding when to plant watermelons in Texas. If you live in an area with a short growing season, it’s best to wait until around mid-April or later before planting. In regions with longer growing seasons, such as the Rio Grande Valley and El Paso, you can typically plant watermelon as early as late February or early March.
When planting your watermelons, it is essential to remember that the longer they are in the ground, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be. This means that if you live in an area with a short growing season, it may be best to wait until closer to the end of May before planting your watermelon. This is because watermelons need plenty of sun and water to grow healthy fruit.
Can I start my watermelons off indoors?
Starting watermelons off indoors can give them a head start on the growing season, but it is best to wait until closer to planting time before transferring them outside.
Watermelons are sensitive to cold temperatures and should not be moved outside until the nighttime temperatures are consistently above 55°F. You should also be aware that nighttime temperatures can be a lot colder and will affect transplanted watermelons.
Conclusion
When deciding when to plant watermelons in Texas, it’s essential to consider both the climate and the length of your growing season.
In general, watermelons should be planted no earlier than February in South Texas and mid-April to May in North Texas. With the right care, you can enjoy a delicious summer snack. Good luck!