Title: Garden Guides | Why Do Watermelons Split on the Vine?
Headings: Why Do Watermelons Split on the Vine?
Why Do Watermelons Split on the Vine?
Water Melons Deeply
Water Melons Infrequently
Mulch to Conserve Moisture
Water Reduction Prior to Ripening

Content: According to the University of Minnesota, irregular watering patterns alter the quality of sugar and cause watermelons to split on the vine before maturing. Water Melons Deeply
Watermelons need large drinks of water, at least 1 to 2 inches deep, weekly. Shallow watering that only wets the soil can cause fruit rot and other unsightly blemishes. Watermelon deprived of sufficient water when fruits are young may develop blossom end rot or end up small and malformed. Blossom end rot is caused by calcium deficiency. Maintaining water levels frees calcium to be used by the plants. Drip irrigation is recommended to deliver water to plants without leaving the soil soggy. Vine-ripened watermelons are a clear confirmation that summer has arrived. Plant stresses such as pests, leaf diseases and poor nutrition will affect the health and taste of watermelons. Water Melons Infrequently
No matter how hot the weather gets, daily watering is counterproductive to watermelon production.