Watermelons are rewarding summer fruits to cultivate, but their sprawling growth habit means the developing fruit often rests directly on the soil. This contact with the ground poses several threats to the quality and health of the final harvest. To ensure you grow high-quality, blemish-free watermelons, it is necessary to introduce a barrier that lifts the fruit and isolates it from the moist earth. This simple practice of elevation is an effective preventative measure against common garden issues, allowing the fruit to ripen cleanly and evenly.
Understanding the Risks of Ground Contact
Direct contact between the watermelon rind and damp soil creates an environment conducive to biological and aesthetic problems. The most significant threat is the increased likelihood of fungal and bacterial rot, which thrive in moist conditions. Soil-borne pathogens can infiltrate the rind, causing soft spots and decay that quickly render the entire fruit inedible, especially following heavy watering or rain events.
The ground also offers easy access for common garden pests, such as slugs, squash bugs, and cucumber beetles, which can chew into the fruit’s thick skin. These ground-dwelling insects can damage the rind, creating entry points for secondary infections that lead to fruit loss. Furthermore, a watermelon resting on the earth will develop a pale or uncolored patch, often referred to as the “ground spot,” where sunlight cannot reach. Keeping the fruit off the soil ensures better airflow, which reduces the overall risk of disease and promotes uniform development across the entire surface of the fruit.
Practical Materials for Elevating Watermelons
The most effective materials for elevation are those that are durable, non-absorbent, and promote airflow around the fruit.
Organic Supports
Many gardeners use organic materials such as a thick layer of straw or hay, which provides a soft, breathable cushion. Straw is readily available and helps insulate the fruit. However, it must be monitored, as it can occasionally harbor pests or trap moisture if the layer is not thick enough to create a true barrier.
Inorganic Supports
Inorganic options provide stability and non-absorbent elevation.
- Wood planks or shingles offer excellent elevation and stability, keeping the fruit completely dry. However, wood can sometimes trap moisture directly underneath the fruit, potentially leading to localized dampness if the soil below is poorly drained.
- Plastic watermelon cradles or small plastic supports are specialized solutions designed to cup the growing fruit. These supports are reusable, promote superior airflow, and are non-absorbent, though they represent an added cost.
- Common household items such as ceramic tiles or bricks provide a firm, clean surface. These materials are highly stable but tend to absorb and retain heat from the sun, which can lead to localized overheating of the rind during the hottest parts of the day.
- Using a layer of clean newspaper or cardboard is another inexpensive method. These materials break down quickly and must be replaced, especially after rainfall.
Proper Timing and Technique for Placement
The timing for placing a support under a developing watermelon is crucial for plant health and fruit integrity. The support should be introduced shortly after the fruit has set and begun to swell, ideally when it is the size of a baseball or softball. Waiting until the fruit is large and heavy increases the risk of damaging the vine during placement, which can interrupt the flow of nutrients and water.
To place the material safely, gently lift the fruit with one hand, supporting its full weight to prevent straining the stem and vine connection. Slide the chosen support material underneath the fruit with the other hand, ensuring the watermelon rests centrally and securely on the barrier. The support must be positioned to allow for maximum air circulation around the entire melon, preventing moisture from pooling between the fruit and the surface. Confirm that the support is stable enough to bear the full, mature weight of the watermelon, which can range from 10 to over 20 pounds depending on the variety.