• Watermelon, scientifically known as Citrullus lanatus, belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family.

• Originating from tropical Africa, it thrives in warm, seasonally dry habitats.

• The European Union’s leading producer of watermelon is Spain, followed by Italy, Greece, and Romania.

• Watermelons require warm conditions to grow, with optimal temperatures ranging from 18 to 40°C.

• They prefer loamy, well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

• Proper irrigation is essential, with watermelons needing around 400-600 mm of rainfall during their growing season.

• December is the ideal time for planting watermelons to ensure a summer harvest. • Seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep in well-prepared soil.

• For irrigation, watermelons need 1 to 2 inches of water per week, with drip irrigation being particularly effective.

• Harvesting typically occurs 30 to 40 days after flowering.

Enjoy the sweet, refreshing taste of watermelon this summer!