Steven M

Cantaloupe will not cross pollinate with watermelon.   Even if you plant them side by side in the same garden bed, a cantaloupe and a watermelon will never produce a hybrid fruit together.   That’s because cantaloupe and watermelon belong to two completely different botanical species, and cross pollination between them simply isn’t possible.   … Read more

Bunnies can eat watermelon rind, and it’s actually a safe, hydrating treat for most rabbits when given in moderation.   Watermelon rind is the green outer skin and the white flesh just beneath it, and it offers a crunchy texture that many bunnies really enjoy.   If you’ve been wondering whether bunnies can eat watermelon … Read more

A watermelon will not continue to ripen off the vine in the way you might expect.   Once a watermelon is harvested, it stops developing the sugars and flavor compounds that make it sweet and juicy.   That’s because watermelon is a non-climacteric fruit, which means it doesn’t continue to ripen after being picked.   … Read more

A rotten watermelon will explode, but only under the right conditions.   If you’ve ever asked yourself “will a rotten watermelon explode?” you’re not alone.   The short answer is yes, a rotten watermelon can explode, and it usually happens because of a buildup of pressure inside the fruit.   This pressure comes from gases … Read more

Your watermelons have stopped growing because the plant has likely hit a growth plateau caused by one or more environmental, nutritional, or biological factors.   This can happen even when the vines look perfectly healthy.   If you have been asking yourself why your watermelons have stopped growing, you are not alone.   It is … Read more

Watermelon leaves turning yellow is a common problem that usually points to a nutrient deficiency, watering issue, disease, or pest infestation.   When you notice watermelon leaves turning yellow, it’s your plant’s way of telling you something isn’t right.   The good news is that most causes of yellowing watermelon leaves can be fixed if … Read more

Your watermelons are shriveling because of inconsistent watering, poor pollination, or extreme heat stressing the vines.   It’s a heartbreaking sight when you’ve watched those tiny green orbs swell into what looked like future prize winners.   One day they’re plump and shiny, and the next they seem to be caving in on themselves.   … Read more

Watermelons not ripening usually comes down to a handful of very fixable problems.   If you’ve been asking yourself, “why are my watermelons not ripening,” you’re in good company because this is one of the most common frustrations for home gardeners.   The good news is that watermelons not ripening is rarely a mystery once … Read more

Your watermelons are rotting because of too much moisture, poor airflow, or pests and diseases that thrive in warm, wet conditions.   If you’ve been asking yourself, “why are my watermelons rotting,” you’re definitely not alone.   It’s one of the most frustrating things for home gardeners who’ve watched their melons grow all season only … Read more

Black spots on watermelons are usually caused by fungal or bacterial infections, sunburn, or even pest damage, and they can range from harmless surface marks to serious rot that ruins the fruit.   If you’ve been noticing black spots on your watermelons and wondering what’s going on, you’re in the right place.   It’s a … Read more