Welcome to the world of watermelon vine ! If you ’re a horticulture enthusiast in New Zealand , you may be wondering when is the best time to plant these spicy , refreshing fruit in your garden . Watermelons ( Citrullus lanatus ) thrive in warm climates , and luckily , the Land of the Long White Cloud offer just the ripe conditions for their successful growth . With its temperate climate and long , cheery summer , New Zealand allow for an ideal surround for cultivating watermelons . In this article , we will explore the optimum timing for planting watermelon in New Zealand , require into circumstance the different regions of the country and the specific requirements of this delicious fruit . So , get ready to dig in and learn when to sow your watermelon seeds for a bountiful harvest !
Best varieties of Watermelon to grow in New Zealand
In New Zealand , the climate is in general soft and temperate , which is suitable for grow watermelons . Here are a few varieties that tend to do well in New Zealand consideration :
Remember to allow your watermelon works with full sun , well - drained soil , and unconstipated lachrymation . Additionally , using mulch around the plants can serve retain wet and suppress Mary Jane growth .
When to plant Watermelon in New Zealand
The best time to plant watermelon in New Zealand is during the warmer months of spring and summer . Watermelons are warm - season crops that want a retentive growing season with mountain of sunlight and warmth . In most regions of New Zealand , it is recommend to sow watermelon seeds or transplant seedling after the last frost date , which is typically in early to mid - spring .
To see successful growth , it is of import to hold off until the dirt temperature has warm up to at least 18 ° one C ( 64 ° F ) before plant Citrullus vulgaris seeds or seedlings . This unremarkably occurs around October or November in most parts of the country . Planting too early when the soil is still cool can lead to inadequate sprouting and scrubby growth .
to boot , watermelons require well - draining soil and a sunny location to thrive . It is advisable to prepare the soil by add organic matter , such as compost , to improve its fertility and drain . Watermelons also need regular lacrimation , especially during dry period , to ascertain coherent ontogeny and fruit development .
Overall , the best time to plant watermelon in New Zealand is during outpouring , once the soil has warmed up and there is no longer a risk of rime .
When to harvest Watermelon in New Zealand
Watermelons are typically harvested in New Zealand during the summer month , specifically from January to March . The exact timing of the harvest will bet on the specific diverseness of watermelon you are mature and the local climate condition .
To determine if a watermelon vine is quick for harvest , there are a few indicators to expect for . Firstly , check the color of the skin . The skin should have a recondite , undifferentiated color . For most varieties , this will be a dark green or yellowish - dark-green vividness . Additionally , the underside of the watermelon should have a creamy or yellowish colour , indicate ripeness .
Another of import factor to reckon is the phone the watermelon makes when tapped . A right watermelon vine will grow a deep , hollow speech sound when pink , while an unripe one will produce a dull thud .
last , check the tendril closest to the Citrullus vulgaris fore . When this tendril plow chocolate-brown and dries up , it is a sign that the watermelon vine is ripe and quick to be reap .
Remember to handle the watermelons carefully during harvesting to avoid damage the yield . Enjoy your homegrown watermelons !
Other considerations
When acquire watermelon in New Zealand , there are several of import considerations to keep in intellect :
By considering these gene , you may increase your chance of successfully growing watermelons in New Zealand .
