Simple Guide To Growing Watermelons in Containers

Growing watermelon in containers is a great way to enjoy this delicious fruit even if you don’t have a large garden. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully grow watermelon in containers using quality potting soil:

Choose the Right Container

• Size: Use a large container with a minimum capacity of 5 gallons. A 10-gallon container or larger is ideal as watermelon plants have extensive root systems.
• Material: Containers can be made of plastic, ceramic, or fabric. Ensure they have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Select the Appropriate Watermelon Variety

Choose smaller, bush-type or dwarf watermelon varieties such as ‘Sugar Baby’, ‘Bush Sugar Baby’, or ‘Golden Midget’. These watermelon varieties are better suited for container gardening. Crimson Sweet is another popular watermelon variety, although it may require more space.

Use Quality Potting Soil

Use a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining. Avoid garden soil as it can be too dense and may not drain well. Quality potting soil is essential for healthy watermelon plants.

Planting the Seeds or Seedlings

• Seeds: Start watermelon seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow seeds 1 inch deep in small pots or seed trays. Keep the soil moist and warm (70-95°F).
• Transplanting: Once watermelon seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the large container. If using watermelon seedlings from a nursery, transplant them directly.

Positioning and Light

Place the container in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Watermelon plants need full sun to thrive.

Watering and Feeding

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Feeding: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Watermelons are heavy feeders and benefit from additional nutrients.

Support and Pruning

• Support: As the watermelon plant grows, provide support for the vines to prevent them from sprawling too much. A trellis or stakes can help keep the plant upright and save space.
• Pruning: Trim back excessive growth and remove any side shoots to focus the plant’s energy on fruit production.

Pollination

Watermelon flowers need to be pollinated to produce fruit. If growing indoors or in an area with few pollinators, you may need to hand-pollinate. Use a small brush to transfer pollen from male flowers to female flowers.

Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Regularly check for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Watch for signs of diseases such as fusarium wilt, powdery mildew, or downy mildew. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues.

Harvesting

Watermelons are ready to harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit turns brown and dries up, the spot where the melon rests on the ground turns yellow, and the fruit sounds hollow when tapped.

Cut the fruit from the vine using a sharp knife or pruning shears.

Different Container Watermelon Varieties

1. Sugar Baby

• Description: Sugar Baby is one of the most popular varieties for container gardening. It produces small, round fruits that weigh between 8-10 pounds.
• Growing Season: Approximately 75 days.
• Characteristics: Sweet, deep red flesh with a thin, dark green rind. The compact vine makes it ideal for container growing.

2. Bush Sugar Baby

• Description: Similar to the Sugar Baby but with an even more compact vine, making it excellent for small spaces.
• Growing Season: Approximately 80 days.
• Characteristics: Produces small, round fruits that are sweet and juicy. The vine reaches about 3-4 feet in length.

3. Golden Midget

• Description: This variety is unique due to its golden-yellow rind when ripe. It is small and compact, perfect for containers.
• Growing Season: Approximately 70 days.
• Characteristics: Fruits weigh about 3 pounds with sweet, pink flesh. The plant has a short vine, suitable for container growing.

4. Garden Baby

• Description: A mini watermelon variety that is perfect for small gardens and containers.
• Growing Season: Approximately 75 days.
• Characteristics: Produces 3-5 pound fruits that are sweet and flavorful. The plant is compact and manageable.

5. Bush Jubilee

• Description: This variety is a more compact version of the traditional Jubilee watermelon, suitable for container growth.
• Growing Season: Approximately 90 days.
• Characteristics: Fruits can weigh up to 10 pounds, with sweet, bright red flesh. The plant has shorter vines than the standard Jubilee.

6. Mini Love

• Description: Mini Love is a newer hybrid variety bred specifically for small spaces and containers.
• Growing Season: Approximately 70-80 days.
• Characteristics: Produces 7-9 pound fruits that are very sweet. The vines are compact and have a good disease resistance profile.

7. Tasty Bites

• Description: Another small watermelon variety ideal for containers and small garden spaces.
• Growing Season: Approximately 70 days.
• Characteristics: Fruits are 2-3 pounds, with sweet, red flesh. The plant is compact and easy to manage.

Tips for Growing Container Watermelon Varieties

• Container Size: Use at least a 10-gallon container for better root development.
• Potting Mix: Use a high-quality potting mix that drains well.
• Sunlight: Place the container in a location that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Support: Provide support for the vines if necessary using stakes or a small trellis.

Best Container to Grow Watermelon

1. Size

• Volume: Choose a container with at least 10 gallons capacity. Larger containers (20-30 gallons) are preferable for better root growth.
• Depth: Ensure the container is at least 18 inches deep to accommodate deep roots.

2. Material

• Plastic: Lightweight, cost-effective, retains moisture well. Be cautious as it can heat up quickly in direct sunlight.
• Fabric: Excellent drainage and air circulation, prevents roots from becoming root-bound. Fabric pots (grow bags) are breathable.
• Ceramic/Terra Cotta: Attractive and stable but heavier and can dry out quickly.
• Wood: Provides good insulation for roots. Ensure it’s treated or lined to prevent rotting.

3. Drainage

• Ensure the container has multiple drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

4. Portability

• Consider containers with handles or wheels to easily move them for optimal sunlight exposure and protection from extreme weather.

Recommended Container Types

1. Large Plastic Pots
   • Pros: Lightweight, moisture-retentive, portable.
   • Cons: Can overheat in direct sunlight.
   • Example: Bloem Ariana Self-Watering Planter (20-24 inches in diameter).
2. Fabric Grow Bags
   • Pros: Excellent drainage, air circulation, prevents root binding, easy storage.
   • Cons: Dries out quickly, frequent watering needed.
   • Example: VIVOSUN 10 or 20 Gallon Grow Bags.
3. Wooden Planters
   • Pros: Good root insulation, sturdy, aesthetically pleasing.
   • Cons: Heavy, needs treatment to prevent rotting.
   • Example: Best Choice Products Wooden Raised Planter Box (with liner).
4. Self-Watering Containers
   • Pros: Consistent moisture levels, reduces watering frequency.
   • Cons: Expensive, heavier due to water reservoir.
   • Example: EarthBox Original Container Gardening System.
5. Repurposed Containers
   • Pros: Eco-friendly, cost-effective.
   • Cons: May need preparation for proper drainage.

Tips to Plant Watermelon in Containers at Home

• Location: Place the container in a spot that gets 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.
• Potting Mix: Use high-quality potting soil for optimal drainage and nutrient retention.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging.
• Support: Provide support for vines using stakes or a small trellis.

How Many Watermelon Plants Per Container?

Container Size and Planting Recommendations

Small Containers (10-15 gallons)

• Number of Plants: 1 plant per container
• Varieties: Ideal for smaller varieties like ‘Sugar Baby’ or ‘Golden Midget’.

Medium Containers (20-30 gallons)

• Number of Plants: 1 plant per container
• Varieties: Suitable for compact or bush varieties such as ‘Bush Sugar Baby’.

Large Containers (30+ gallons)

• Number of Plants: 1-2 plants per container
• Varieties: Can accommodate larger varieties like ‘Crimson Sweet’ if only planting one, or two smaller plants.

Additional Tips

1. Spacing: Watermelons need ample space for their roots to spread and grow. Crowding them can lead to competition for nutrients and water, resulting in smaller fruits.
2. Support: Use stakes, trellises, or cages to support the vines and keep the plant upright, especially if you’re growing multiple plants in a larger container.
3. Soil: Use high-quality potting soil with good drainage to ensure healthy root development.
4. Watering: Ensure consistent watering, as containers can dry out more quickly than ground soil.

Summary

• 10-15 gallon containers: 1 plant per container (small varieties).
• 20-30 gallon containers: 1 plant per container (compact varieties).
• 30+ gallon containers: 1-2 plants per container (larger varieties or multiple smaller plants).

Growing Watermelon in Containers Vertically

Growing watermelon in containers vertically is an excellent way to maximize space and ensure healthy fruit development. Here’s a detailed guide on how to grow watermelon in containers vertically:

Choose the Right Container

• Size: Use a container with a minimum capacity of 10-15 gallons. Larger containers (20-30 gallons) are ideal.
• Depth: Ensure the container is at least 18 inches deep.
• Material: Choose from plastic, fabric, ceramic, or wood with good drainage.

Select Suitable Watermelon Varieties

• Go for smaller, bush-type, or dwarf varieties such as:
  • Sugar Baby
  • Bush Sugar Baby
  • Golden Midget
  • Mini Love
  • Tasty Bites

Prepare the Container

• Potting Mix: Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix.
• Drainage: Ensure there are several drainage holes in the container.

Planting

• Seeds: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds 1 inch deep.
• Seedlings: Transplant seedlings into the container once they have two sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed.

Support Structure

• Trellis: Install a sturdy trellis in the container at the time of planting. The trellis should be at least 6 feet tall.
• Cages: Use tomato cages for smaller varieties.
• Netting: Garden netting can also be used to support the vines.

Training the Vines

• Gently tie the watermelon vines to the trellis using soft plant ties, twine, or cloth strips.
• Continue to train the vines upward as they grow, ensuring they are securely attached to the support structure.

Pollination

• Watermelon flowers need to be pollinated to set fruit. If there are few pollinators in your area, hand-pollinate using a small brush to transfer pollen from male to female flowers.

Support the Fruit

• Slings: Create slings from old t-shirts, pantyhose, or netting to support the growing fruits. Tie the slings to the trellis to hold the weight of the watermelons.
• Check Regularly: Ensure the slings are secure and adjust as the fruits grow.

Watering and Feeding

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Feeding: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.

Monitor for Pests and Diseases

• Pests: Check regularly for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
• Diseases: Watch for signs of diseases like powdery mildew or fusarium wilt. Ensure good air circulation around the plant.

Harvesting

• Signs of Ripeness: Watermelons are ready to harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit turns brown and dries up, the spot where the melon rests turns yellow, and the fruit sounds hollow when tapped.
• Harvest Carefully: Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the vine.

Benefits of Vertical Growing

• Space Efficiency: Maximizes limited space, making it ideal for small gardens or patios.
• Better Air Circulation: Reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
• Ease of Harvesting: Fruits are easier to access and pick.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow watermelons in containers vertically, enjoying fresh, home-grown watermelons even in small spaces.

What Size Container to Grow Watermelon?​​​​​​​

10-15 Gallon Containers

Ideal for small, compact watermelon varieties.

Example: Plastic or fabric grow bags, large plastic pots.

20-30 Gallon Containers

Suitable for medium-sized watermelons.

Example: Large fabric grow bags, wooden planters, large plastic barrels.

30+ Gallon Containers

• Best for larger watermelon varieties.

• Example: Extra-large fabric grow bags, repurposed half-barrels, custom-built wooden planters.

How to Grow Watermelon in Pots

Choose the Right Pot

• Size: At least 10-15 gallons.
• Material: Plastic, fabric, or wood with drainage holes.

Select a Suitable Variety

Go for smaller varieties like ‘Sugar Baby’ or ‘Golden Midget’.

Prepare the Pot

Fill with high-quality, well-draining potting mix.

Plant Seeds or Seedlings

• Seeds: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Plant 1 inch deep.
• Seedlings: Transplant when they have two sets of true leaves.

Positioning

Place the pot in a location that gets 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Support

Install a trellis or stakes for vines to grow vertically.

Watering and Feeding

• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Pollination

Hand-pollinate if necessary by transferring pollen from male to female flowers.

Monitor and Maintain

• Check for pests and diseases regularly.
• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.

Harvest

• Harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit turns brown and the bottom spot turns yellow.
• Growing watermelon in a small space is achievable with a few smart gardening techniques. Here’s a short and simple guide to help you get started:

How to Grow Watermelon in a Small Space​​​​​​​

Steps to Grow Watermelon in a Small Space

Choose a Compact Variety

Select small or bush-type varieties like ‘Sugar Baby,’ ‘Bush Sugar Baby,’ or ‘Golden Midget.’

Use Containers

• Use a container that is at least 10-15 gallons in size.
• Ensure the container has drainage holes.

Prepare the Soil

Fill the container with high-quality, well-draining potting mix.

Planting Seeds or Seedlings

• Seeds: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Plant 1 inch deep.
• Seedlings: Transplant when they have at least two sets of true leaves.

Vertical Growing

Install a trellis or use a sturdy support system to train the vines upward, saving horizontal space.

Sunlight

Place the container in a spot that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Watering and Feeding

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Pollination

Hand-pollinate if necessary, by transferring pollen from male to female flowers.

Fruit Support

Use slings made from old t-shirts or netting to support the weight of the growing melons on the trellis.

Monitoring

Check regularly for pests and diseases. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.

Harvesting

Harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit turns brown and the underside of the melon turns yellow.