Tendersweet Orange Watermelon

Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before your last frost date in seed-starting mix kept at 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Watermelon seeds germinate reliably in warm conditions, though they dislike being transplanted, so use peat pots or soil blocks to minimize root disturbance.

Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Transplant after your last frost date when nighttime temperatures consistently reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Plant at the same depth they were growing indoors.

Direct sow seeds outdoors after all frost danger has passed and soil temperature reaches at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Sow seeds 1 inch deep in groups of 2-3 seeds spaced 36 inches apart.

Tendersweet Orange watermelons reach harvest readiness at 90-99 days from planting, though most sources report 90 days as standard. Look for fruits that feel heavy for their size, a creamy spot on the bottom where the melon rested on soil, and a dusky sound when thumped (a hollow thud rather than a tight, high-pitched tone indicates ripeness). The skin should show good color contrast between the light and dark green stripes without any large yellow or orange patches. Cut melons from the vine with a sharp knife rather than twisting them off.