Watermelon tolerates hot weather, and requires more heat than most vegetables. Plants thrive at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, which is also favorable for seed germination. Plants do best on fertile sandy loam or loam soil with good drainage and a pH level of 5.6 to 8.0.
Varieties available
Buffalo – This is an early yielding variety, with vigorous, high-round and dark green fruits. The rind is thin but very tough, making it ideal for shipping; sugar content is around 12-14%. A fruit weighs between 12 kilograms (kgs) to 15 kgs. This variety performs better in hot and dry conditions and is adaptable to all types of soil.
Diana – A unique, golden yellow skinned, oval-shaped fruit with a soft and juicy texture. This is excellent for the high-class markets with brix averages of 12 to 14 %, and a fruit weighing from 2 kg to 4 kg, depending on fruit selection. A plant matures from 60-65 days after sowing.
Tiffany – This variety is a delicate fruit with crisp, juicy, and creamy sunshiny-yellow flesh. It produces dark green fruits with oval shape, with brix averages of 12-14 %, and with a fruit weight of 2-4 kg, depending on fruit selection. A plant matures from 60-65 days after transplanting.
