Overview: Crimson Sweet has a tough, medium green rind with dark-green stripes. They average a weight of 25 pounds and have a high sugar content. Their bright red flesh with a firm and fine texture makes them a favoerite in southern gardens. They also adapt well to other climates making them a popular choice in the United States
Growing Instructions:
Sowing: In cool climates, seeds should be started indoors, but no sooner then a month before transplanting. Plant 3 seeds per peat pot 1/4 inch deep and keep soil at least 80-85 degrees F. Cut off the strongest seedling as soon as the true leaves appear and transplant it 1 week after frost. Gardeners in warm climates can direct sow seeds as soon as soil temp reaches 75 degree F. Crimson Sweet should be planted in full sun and rich, loose soil(pH 6.0–7.0). Allow for 6-8 feet of space in all directions.
Germination: 7–10 days at 75–85°F.
Care: As soon as vines begin to develop, applying a thick layer of mulch will help control weeds and protect the melon from soil contact. Keep soil moist until the fruit begins to grow, then only water if the soil dries out completely.
Harvest: There are multiple methods for determining whether watermelons are ripe. knowing the melons mature size helps determine the level of ripeness. One method is to knock on the watermelon with your knuckles, listening for a dull thump instead of a hollow ring. Another is the curling tendril closest to the stem turning brown indicates ripeness. The underside of the melon where it rests on the ground should be a rich yellow.
