🌱 Introduction
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is one of the most refreshing summer fruits, packed with water content, vitamins, and antioxidants. In India, watermelon is cultivated extensively in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and many other states.
With rising demand and health awareness, watermelon farming has become highly profitable. Whether you’re a commercial farmer or a beginner, this blog covers all aspects – from seed to harvest.
🧬 Watermelon Botanical Information
Scientific Name: Citrullus lanatus
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Common Names in India: Tarbooj (तरबूज), Kalinda
Climate: Warm and dry climate
Season: Best grown in summer (January–May in most states)
🌾 Best Soil & Climate for Watermelon Cultivation
Soil Type: Sandy loam or well-drained alluvial soil
pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
Climate: Requires hot, dry weather and a long frost-free season
Temperature: Ideal 25°C to 35°C for best growth
🌰 Best Watermelon Seed Varieties in India
| Variety Name | Duration | Weight (Average) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar Baby | 75–80 days | 3–5 kg | Round, sweet red flesh |
| Arka Jyoti | 85–90 days | 4–6 kg | Disease-resistant |
| Namdhari 420 | 80–85 days | 4–7 kg | Suitable for early harvest |
| NS 295 | 90 days | 6–8 kg | Excellent sweetness |
| Kiran | 85 days | 3–5 kg | Oval shape, high yield |
✅ Tip: Always buy certified hybrid watermelon seeds from trusted sources.
🚜 Watermelon Farming Step-by-Step Guide
1️⃣ Land Preparation
Plough the land 2–3 times
Add FYM (Farmyard Manure) and compost before sowing
Create raised beds or ridges for better water drainage
2️⃣ Sowing Time
North India: February–March
South India: November–January
Seed rate: 1–1.5 kg per acre
Spacing: 2–3 feet between plants; 6 feet between rows
3️⃣ Irrigation & Watering
Water after sowing and then every 7–10 days
Stop irrigation 7–10 days before harvest to enhance sweetness
Drip irrigation saves water and gives better results
4️⃣ Fertilizers
Apply Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) based on soil test
Organic farmers can use neem cake and biofertilizers like Azospirillum
🌿 Watermelon Plant Care and Management
Use mulching to retain moisture and control weeds
Prune excess vines to increase fruit size
Regularly inspect plants for pests and diseases
🐛 Common Pests and Diseases in Watermelon
| Disease / Pest | Symptoms | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Powdery Mildew | White spots on leaves | Use sulfur-based spray |
| Downy Mildew | Yellow patches on leaves | Spray Mancozeb |
| Fruit Fly | Holes in fruit skin | Use pheromone traps |
| Aphids | Leaf curling | Neem oil spray |
| Fusarium Wilt | Plant wilts and dies | Crop rotation & soil solarization |
🍉 Harvesting Watermelons
Ready for harvest in 70–90 days from sowing
Maturity signs:
Dried tendril near fruit
Yellow patch on fruit base
Hollow sound on tapping
Use sharp tools to cut fruit carefully
📦 Post-Harvest and Marketing Tips
Store in cool, shaded area
Transport with care to avoid damage
Sell to local mandis, wholesalers, or fruit vendors
Organic watermelons fetch premium rates in urban markets
✅ Watermelon Yield per Acre in India
On average, watermelon yield ranges from 20 to 30 tons per acre depending on the variety, irrigation, and crop management practices.
🍽️ Nutritional and Health Benefits of Watermelon
Rich in Vitamin A, C, potassium, and antioxidants
Helps in hydration and cooling the body
Boosts heart health and improves digestion
Great source of lycopene, which helps in cancer prevention
📘 Conclusion
Watermelon farming offers excellent returns in a short time, especially during the summer season. With proper soil management, seed selection, irrigation, and disease control, farmers can maximize their yield and profit.
“Watermelon is not just a fruit; it’s a summer cash crop when done right!”