PLANTS SHIP MID-MAY+ (except fruit trees), SEEDS SHIP ANYTIME, CANADA ONLY. LOCAL PICKUP AVAILABLE (incl. fruit trees, Ottawa) CITRON RED SEEDED WATERMELON | id:24041 | Citrullus lanatus | Ecologically grown | Annual | Open Pollinated | Heirloom This variety has been grown for centuries and used to make preserves, pickles, and “sweetmeats.” It is possible that the watermelon originated in Africa and that it was cultivated in the Nile Valley as early as the 2nd millennium BCE and is mentioned in the Bible. Later the watermelon was brought to India and China before being brought to Europe. It was brought to North America by European colonists and African slaves. Sow seeds outdoors in 12″ diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8′ apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils. Vitamins+: B1, B6, C++, K+, Lycopene Companion plants: Radish, Corn, Garlic, Nasturtium, Pumpkin, Squash. Far from: Potato. Planting tip: Soaking in warm water for up to 12H & scarification is recommended for improved germination. Sow indoors 2 weeks before transplanting outside. Direct sow or ||plant outside when soil °T is above 21°C. Harvesting tip: Harvest when tendril near the fruit is dried and brown. Storage tip: Store at 7°C and at 85% humidity for up to 3 weeks.
Seed depth:1/2″ Direct, Plant spacing:24-36”, Row spacing:60″, Sun Level:3, Watering Level:2, Germination:3-10 days/jrs, 21-35°C Optimally:27-30°C, Maturity:80-100 d/j, Height: 12-18″, Edible flower (See Envelope below) Gaia Organics, 399 River Road, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1V 1C9 (near Gatineau, Quebec) 613-219-8463 (see the envelope below)
