How to Grow a Square Watermelon

Growing square watermelons is a unique and fascinating gardening technique that has received a lot of attention in recent years. The idea of growing watermelons in a square shape may seem strange to some people, but there are several benefits to doing so.

For one, square watermelons take up less space than traditional round watermelons, making them a great option for gardeners with limited growing space. Additionally, their unusual shape makes them a great conversation starter and a fun gardening project for kids and adults alike.

In this guide, I will share my ultimate tips and techniques for growing amazing square watermelons. I’ve grown these unique fruits for several years now and have perfected my techniques to ensure high yields and delicious fruit. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, my guide will provide you with everything you need to know to successfully grow square watermelons.

My Ultimate Guide to Growing Square Watermelons

Getting Started

Before you can start growing square watermelons, you’ll need to gather some supplies and prepare your growing area. Here’s what you’ll need:

Seeds: You can purchase square watermelon seeds online or at your local gardening store. Be sure to choose a variety that is well-suited for your climate and growing conditions.
Container: Square watermelons are grown in a container that helps shape the fruit as it grows. You can use a wooden or plastic container, as long as it’s sturdy and can withstand pressure.
Soil: Square watermelons require loose, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Test your soil pH and amend it as necessary to ensure optimal growing conditions.
Water: Your plants will need consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Be sure to place your container in a location where it can receive regular watering.
Fertilizer: Square watermelons require regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and high yields. Look for a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Growing location: Choose a sunny location in your garden or on your patio that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.

Once you have all of your supplies, it’s time to prepare your growing area. Clear the area of any debris or weeds and loosen the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. Amend the soil with compost or another organic matter to help retain water and promote healthy growth.

If you’re growing square watermelons in a container, be sure that it is large enough to accommodate the fruit as it grows. A container that is at least 12 inches deep and 12 inches wide is recommended. Drill several drainage holes in the bottom of the container to allow excess moisture to drain away.

When selecting your seeds, choose a variety that is well-suited to your climate. Some popular varieties of square watermelons include ‘Black Diamond’, ‘Sugar Baby’, and ‘Crimson Sweet’. Square watermelon seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors and transplanted outdoors once the weather warms up.

Shaping the Watermelon

One of the most important aspects of growing square watermelons is shaping the fruit as it grows. The key to shaping square watermelons is to insert them into a container that will help mold the fruit into a square shape.

Here’s how to shape your square watermelon:

Choose a container that is roughly the size you want your watermelon to be. The container should be sturdy enough to withstand the pressure of the growing fruit.
Cut a small opening in the bottom of the container to allow for drainage. This will prevent water from pooling in the bottom of the container and causing rot.
Insert the young fruit into the container through the opening in the bottom. Be sure to position the fruit so that it is centered in the container.
Secure the fruit in place by wrapping a piece of cloth or string around it and tying it to the container. This will prevent the fruit from moving around as it grows.
As the fruit grows, gently press on the sides of the container to help shape it into a square. Be careful not to press too hard or you could damage the fruit.
Continue shaping the fruit as it grows until it fills the container and reaches maturity.

Caring for the Watermelon

Once you’ve shaped your square watermelon, it’s important to care for it properly to ensure a healthy and abundant harvest. Here are some tips for caring for your square watermelon:

Provide sufficient light

Square watermelons require at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. If possible, choose a growing location that receives plenty of direct sunlight.

Water regularly

Water your square watermelon regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Be sure to water deeply and thoroughly to encourage deep root growth.

Fertilize

Square watermelons require regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and high yields. Look for a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Monitor for pests and diseases

Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect watermelon plants, such as aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. If you notice any signs of infestation or disease, take action immediately to prevent it from spreading.

Prune and maintain

Regularly prune your square watermelon to encourage proper growth and remove any diseased or damaged leaves. Also, be sure to remove any runners that are not producing fruit to redirect the plant’s energy towards fruit production.

Harvesting and Enjoying Your Square Watermelon

After weeks of careful nurturing and shaping, your square watermelon is finally ready to be harvested. Here’s how to tell when your square watermelon is ripe and ready to enjoy:

Check the color: The skin of a ripe square watermelon should have a uniform dark green color with no yellow or white spots.
Check the sound: Tap the fruit gently with your knuckles. If it sounds hollow, it’s likely ripe and ready to be harvested.
Check the curl: Look at the stem end of the fruit. If the stem has a curly tendril that is dry and brown, the fruit is likely ripe.
Check the weight: A mature square watermelon should feel heavy for its size, indicating that it is full of sweet juice.

Once you’ve determined that your square watermelon is ripe, it’s time to harvest it. Use a sharp knife to cut the stem as close to the fruit as possible, being careful not to damage the fruit.

To serve your square watermelon, cut it into slices or cubes just like you would with a traditional round watermelon. The unique square shape will make for an eye-catching and delicious addition to any summer fruit platter.

Conclusion

Growing square watermelons can be a fun and rewarding gardening project for anyone looking to try something new and unique. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow and shape square watermelons that are sure to impress.

Remember to start by gathering the right supplies and preparing your growing area properly. Shape your watermelon carefully using a container, and be sure to care for it regularly by providing sufficient light, water, and fertilization. Finally, harvest your square watermelon at the right time and enjoy the sweet, juicy fruit.

With a little bit of patience and the right techniques, you can become a master of growing amazing square watermelons that will be the talk of your neighborhood.

Grow Amazing Square Watermelons with This Guide