Watermelons are a fruit grown in many regions. In southern regions, March is the best time to cultivate watermelon seedlings. However, many people are unclear about how to cultivate watermelon seedlings. So, what is the best way to cultivate watermelon seedlings ? Let's find out below.
1. Selecting varieties
There are many excellent varieties of watermelon. When choosing a variety, you should consider its characteristics, climate conditions, and cultivation methods. Be sure to buy from reputable seed vendors to avoid being scammed and buying fake seeds.
2. Sun-drying the seeds
Choose a sunny, windless day. Spread the seeds on a mat or paper, no more than 1 cm thick, and expose them to direct sunlight. Turn them over every 2 hours to ensure even exposure to light. Do not place the seeds on cement slabs, iron plates, or stones while sun-drying, as this may scald the seeds and affect their germination rate.
3. Soaking seeds
Watermelon seeds are difficult to germinate, especially in March when the weather is relatively cool. If watermelon seeds are planted outdoors, germination will be slow. To speed up germination, you can soak the seeds beforehand in water for about half a day to allow them to absorb enough moisture, which can save a lot of time.
4. Germination
After the watermelon seeds have absorbed enough water, their internal tissues will begin to revive. At this time, wrap the watermelon seeds in a damp cloth and place them on the top shelf of the refrigerator to germinate. Set the refrigerator to a low temperature. Alternatively, place them in a foam box to germinate. They can sprout in as little as 3 days. When the radicle grows to 0.3-0.5 cm, they can be sown.
5. Sowing
For watermelon seedlings, it is recommended to use nutrient soil. Nutrient soil is loose and breathable, which is more conducive to the germination of watermelon seeds and the rooting and growth of watermelon seedlings. Prepare some seedling pots or seedling bags. One watermelon seed can be sown in one seedling bag. Plant the germinated watermelon seed and cover it with 2 cm of soil.
6. Pest control
After watermelon seeds germinate, it is necessary to pay attention to insect prevention. Crickets, mole crickets, snails, and slugs are particularly fond of eating watermelon seedlings. It is recommended to cover the seedling bags with a small arched shed and only uncover them when watering and fertilizing are needed.
