Watermelon

Sow the seeds directly into a larger pot with potting compost. Don't prick them out, as they can't cope with root damage.

Make sure you plant at least two plants. The fruits only develop when pollinated by another plant.

This heat-loving plant does best in a greenhouse or a hotbed in our climate. A hotbed is a special type of cold frame where you put a layer of fresh manure at the bottom. As it continues to decompose, it generates heat – basically a natural underfloor heating system.

In mild wine-growing regions, some varieties also grow outdoors, possibly with black plastic mulch covering the soil. You can also grow them in a large pot in a sheltered spot on a balcony or patio.

The plant needs humus-rich soil with good water retention.

Unlike sugar melons, you must not prune watermelon plants, as the fruits develop at the ends of the vines.

Water regularly with lukewarm water while the fruits are growing. Once they've reached their full size and are just ripening, ease off the watering – otherwise the fruit may split.
The name watermelon doesn't come from needing lots of water, but from the fact that the fruit stores an incredible amount of water.

You can also train watermelons up a string. If you do, support the fruits with a net bag so they don't tear off.