Watermelon Farming: A zaid crop is watermelon since it grows quickly on irrigated land. There is no need for farmers to wait for the monsoon to cultivate watermelon because it can be grown with less water and fertiliser at a minimum cost. Where are watermelons native to? Their cultivation dates back to ancient times in Africa. Furthermore, watermelon contains 93% water with low calories, making it the main part of summer fruit. Summer is the best time to consume it, so it is very popular. The purpose of this blow is to explain how watermelon farming is a profitable business.
| Botanical Name | Citrullus Vulgaris |
| Plant Type | Annual fruiting vine |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 6.8 pH level |
| Size | 9-18 inch tall; 10-15 ft spread |
The Watermelon Farming Process
Cucurbitaceae is the family that houses watermelon. The fruit is a large, juicy and nutrient-dense fruit that grows in India during the warm season. Water fills the fruit, which can be eaten raw. Because watermelon grows easily, you can grow it on your farms quickly. Watermelon can be produced on sandy loam rich, and the ideal PH range is 6.5-7.5.”
Watermelon Benefits
Watermelon has some health benefits that keep us in good shape. To ensure thriving production, use good quality watermelon seeds.
-
You stay hydrated with it
-
The plant is packed with nutrients and beneficial components
-
It improves heart health and has anti-cancer properties
-
Oxidative stress and inflammation can be reduced
-
Macular degeneration can be prevented by it
-
Enhance digestion and skin health
-
Sore muscles are relieved by it
Growing watermelon with organic compost is the essential benefit. It is possible to make more profit from organic watermelon farming in this unhealthy environment due to an increase in demand for organic products. A polluted environment requires organic watermelon farming for organic products.
Read More: Pineapple Farming in India: List of Varieties & Health Benefits
The Indian watermelon industry
Watermelon is the third most popular fruit in India. There are watermelons grown throughout India, but the highest production is found in five states (Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Orissa). A total of 706.65 tonnes of watermelon are produced by Uttar Pradesh, according to the latest data. Also, watermelon is grown in 628.57 tonnes in Andhra Pradesh. Watermelon is grown in Tamil Nadu at a rate of 315.19 tonnes per year. Orissa grows 253.54 tonnes of watermelon, while Karnataka produces 260.90 tonnes.
Many of us don’t know how to cultivate watermelon or other things that go with it, even though we are familiar with its colour, shape, and taste. Let’s learn about watermelon cultivation.
Watermelon Light & Soil
The development of sugars in the watermelons depends on full sunlight for thriving watermelon farming. Furthermore, high temperatures increase fruit growth, which makes watermelon farming excellent. Although it is best grown on rich loamy soil, farmers can cultivate it quickly on infertile land. A pH level between 5.5 and 7.0 is also required for its production. Farmers also use organic components to grow healthier crops.
Spacing of watermelon
The usual spacing between rows of watermelon in cultivation is four to five feet. Watermelon plants should also be spaced 2 feet to 2.5 feet apart. There may be between 3400 and 4500 plants per acre.
Watermelon irrigation
Watermelons require regular watering when they are growing at their initial level. They need less water when they are setting fruits. They will lose their sweetness if they get too much water. It requires hot conditions for production, if we talk about their temperature. Their growth is equally successful in humid and arid conditions, as long as the soil is moist enough.
Read More: The 5 best crops to grow during the rainy season
Watermelon fertilizer
It is important to prepare the soil properly before sowing by adding organic manure. Watermelons grow steadily when farmers add a layer of compost in the mid-season. Organic matter is crucial to your soil, so make sure it isn’t lacking. Alternatively, if you prefer chemical fertilizer, apply a fertiliser that contains more nitrogen than potassium and phosphorus in order to boost the growth of leaves and vines. Fertilize a second time after flowering with a low-nitrogen fertiliser.
Harvesting watermelon
Here are a few tips to help you determine when your watermelon is ready for harvesting. It can be difficult to tell when your fruit is fully grown, but here are a few things you need to think about.
Watermelon is best harvested when its tendril dries out and its whitish color turns yellow after it touches soil. Avoid plucking immature fruit. Their sugar content and color aren’t rich. It is possible to store melons for up to two weeks even uncut.
Profits from growing watermelon
Due to the increasing demand for watermelon and the high income per acre, watermelon farming is a very profitable crop. Farmers are able to earn a profit of two to three lakhs by cultivating watermelons on their farms in three months. Additionally, watermelon farming is a profitable business opportunity for commercial farmers as well as marginal farmers.
A huge profit can also be made by exporting the results to other states and countries. Generally speaking, watermelon’s green parts (shelf life) last longer. If there are no spots or patches on its most eaten part, it will remain edible for at least 3 to 4 weeks after harvesting. It is for this reason that exporting watermelons can be very profitable for farmers.
The facts about watermelon
-
From the time it is sown to the time it is harvested, the plant takes about 90 days to mature.
-
It is also possible to eat the green part of the watermelon.
-
Watermelon Day is celebrated on 3rd August.
The information above will help you cultivate watermelon. Aarug Agro can provide you with more information regarding watermelon agriculture.
Watermelon Farming FAQs
Que. What is the maximum number of watermelon plants you can grow on an acre of land?
Ans. One acre of land can grow 4535 to 31751 kilograms of watermelon.
Que. Can you tell me what is the best fertilizer for watermelon?
Ans. Watermelon grows best with fertilizer that contains nitrogen.
Que. What country produces the most watermelon?
Ans. There is no doubt that China produces the most watermelon in the world.
Que. Watermelon farming requires how much investment?
Ans. A land plot costs about Rs. 55000.
Que. How long does a watermelon plant live?
Ans. Watermelon plants live for three to four months.
