The Jubilee watermelon variety is a favored choice for home gardeners, recognized for its classic sweet flavor and substantial size. Cultivating these watermelons involves understanding their distinct growth phases, from a tiny seed to a mature, ready-to-harvest fruit.
From Seed to Seedling
The journey begins with a seed. For successful germination, these seeds thrive in warm conditions, ideally with soil temperatures consistently between 75°F and 90°F. Providing consistent moisture without waterlogging the planting medium supports the emergence of the sprout. Once germinated, the first structures to appear are the cotyledons, which are embryonic leaves. Shortly after, the first true leaves develop, signaling the plant’s transition into a seedling. If starting seeds indoors, seedlings are typically ready for transplanting outdoors when they have developed two to three true leaves and the risk of frost has passed. This early stage requires careful handling to protect the delicate root system during transfer.
Vine and Leaf Development
Following the seedling phase, the Jubilee watermelon plant enters a period of vigorous vegetative growth, characterized by the rapid expansion of its vines. These long, sprawling stems can extend significantly, requiring ample space in the garden, often spreading 8 to 10 feet. Alongside vine elongation, numerous large, deeply lobed leaves emerge, forming a dense canopy. These leaves are crucial for photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy for plant development and fruit production. During this stage, consistent watering supports robust vine and leaf growth, especially as the plant establishes its extensive root system. Providing adequate nitrogen during this initial growth phase promotes lush foliage, and practices such as mulching around the plant base help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, benefiting the spreading vines.
Flowering and Pollination
As the Jubilee watermelon plant matures, it begins to produce flowers, an important step in its reproductive cycle. Both male and female flowers appear on the same plant (monoecious). Male flowers typically emerge first, identifiable by their slender stems and lack of a swelling at their base. Female flowers are distinguished by a small, undeveloped fruit, or ovary, visible at the base of the flower, directly beneath the petals. For fruit to develop, pollen must transfer from a male flower to a female flower’s stigma. Natural pollinators, primarily bees, move pollen as they forage. If natural pollination appears insufficient, gardeners can assist by gently transferring pollen from a male flower to a female flower using a small brush, ensuring fruit set.
Fruit Growth and Maturation
After successful pollination, the small ovary at the base of the female flower swells and develops into a young fruitlet. This marks the beginning of rapid fruit expansion for the Jubilee watermelon. During this phase, the developing fruit demands substantial water and nutrients from the plant. As the fruit matures, several indicators signal its readiness for harvest. One reliable sign is a large, pale yellow or cream-colored spot on the underside where it rests on the ground. Another indicator is the tendril closest to the fruit stem, which typically dries and turns brown when the melon is ripe. The “thump test” can also be useful; a ripe Jubilee watermelon produces a dull, hollow sound when tapped, unlike an unripe melon’s sharper sound.
Harvesting Your Jubilee Watermelons
Once your Jubilee watermelon shows signs of ripeness, it is time for harvest. To remove the melon from the vine, use a sharp knife or clean pruning shears. Carefully cut the stem about one to two inches above where it connects to the fruit. This ensures a clean separation and helps prevent damage to the melon or the vine. Leaving a short piece of stem attached to the watermelon can help improve its shelf life after harvesting. Handle the harvested watermelon with care; dropping it can cause bruising or internal damage. After harvesting, store your Jubilee watermelon in a cool, shaded area if not consumed immediately.