Growing square watermelons is an intriguing horticultural technique that originated with Japanese farmers. To grow a square watermelon, place a young, developing fruit inside a cube-shaped mold and allow it to fill the container as it matures. This method requires careful monitoring and attention to detail.
The process begins by selecting a small watermelon while it’s still on the vine. A specially designed square container, typically made of transparent material like polycarbonate plastic, is then placed around the fruit. As the watermelon grows, it naturally takes on the shape of its confinement.
Square watermelons are not just a novelty; they serve practical purposes as well. These uniquely shaped fruits are easier to stack and store, making them popular in Japan where space is often at a premium. While growing square watermelons can be challenging, it offers gardeners an opportunity to experiment with an unusual and visually striking cultivation method.
Understanding Square Watermelons
Square watermelons are a unique gardening innovation that combines art and agriculture. These eye-catching fruits have gained popularity as decorative items and conversation starters.
History and Background
Square watermelons originated in Japan in the 1980s. Japanese farmers developed this technique to create more efficient storage and transportation of the fruit. They used cube-shaped molds to force the growing watermelons into a square shape. The idea was to make the melons easier to stack and ship, reducing wasted space in refrigerators and delivery trucks.
Initially, square watermelons were primarily a novelty item. They gained attention for their unusual appearance and became popular gifts in Japan. The concept soon spread to other countries, capturing the interest of gardeners and fruit enthusiasts worldwide.
Square Watermelons Today
Square watermelons have evolved from a practical solution to a luxury item and gardening project. They are now grown more for their aesthetic appeal than for ease of storage. These unique fruits often command high prices in specialty markets.
Growing square watermelons has become a popular hobby for home gardeners. The process involves placing young watermelons into square molds as they grow. This technique requires careful monitoring to ensure proper fruit development.
Square watermelons are not typically eaten. The fruits are often harvested before fully ripe to maintain their shape. This practice results in watermelons that are less sweet and may have a harder texture than traditional round varieties.
Preparation for Planting
Proper preparation is crucial for growing square watermelons successfully. This involves selecting high-quality seeds, preparing nutrient-rich soil, and ensuring optimal temperature conditions.
Selecting Quality Seeds
Choose watermelon seeds from reputable suppliers. Look for varieties known for their sweet flavor and disease resistance. Opt for seeds specifically bred for container growing, as these tend to produce smaller fruits suitable for shaping.
Consider hybrid varieties that offer improved yields and vigor. Seeds should be fresh and properly stored to ensure good germination rates.
Before planting, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the outer shell and speed up germination.
Preparing the Soil
Square watermelons require well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Mix equal parts garden soil, compost, and perlite to create an ideal growing medium.
Test the soil pH, aiming for a range between 6.0 and 6.8. Adjust if necessary using lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it.
Incorporate aged manure or compost to improve soil structure and fertility. Add a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients throughout the growing season.
Ensure the planting area receives full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours daily.
Soil Temperature Considerations
Watermelons are warm-season crops that thrive in soil temperatures above 70°F (21°C). Use a soil thermometer to monitor temperature before planting.
If soil temperatures are too low, consider using black plastic mulch to warm the soil and suppress weeds. Remove the plastic once temperatures consistently reach the optimal range.
In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost date. Use biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance when transplanting.
For outdoor planting, wait until all danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C).
Planting and Care
Growing square watermelons requires attention to detail and specific techniques. Proper planting and care are essential for successful cultivation and shaping of these unique fruits.
Sowing Watermelon Seeds
Plant watermelon seeds in hills or mounds of soil about 1 inch deep. Space hills 4 to 6 feet apart to allow ample room for vine growth. Sow 3 to 5 seeds per hill, then thin to the strongest 2 plants once they reach 3 inches tall.
For square watermelons, select compact varieties suitable for container growing. Start seeds indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost date for an early harvest.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Watermelons thrive in warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Soil temperature should be at least 70°F (21°C) for optimal germination.
Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for best results.
For square watermelons, place a cubic mold around young fruits when they reach the size of a baseball. The mold will shape the fruit as it grows.
Watering and Fertilization
Consistent moisture is crucial for watermelon growth. Water deeply once or twice a week, providing 1 to 2 inches of water. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent disease.
Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) when vines begin to run. Side-dress with additional nitrogen when fruits start to form. Use a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer during fruit development to enhance sweetness.
For container-grown square watermelons, water more frequently and fertilize every 2 weeks with a half-strength balanced fertilizer solution.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Monitor plants regularly for common watermelon pests such as aphids, cucumber beetles, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for organic pest control.
- Common watermelon diseases:
- Powdery mildew
- Fusarium wilt
- Anthracnose
Prevent diseases by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Remove infected plants promptly to prevent spread. Apply fungicides as needed, following label instructions carefully.
For square watermelons, inspect the mold regularly to ensure proper ventilation and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to fruit rot.
Creating the Square Shape
Growing a square watermelon requires careful manipulation of the fruit’s natural growth process. The key lies in using a specialized mold and closely monitoring the watermelon’s development.
Using the Right Mold
To grow a square watermelon, you’ll need a square-shaped mold. These molds are typically made of transparent polycarbonate plastic, allowing light to reach the fruit. The ideal size is about 8 inches square and 3/8 inch thick. Assemble the mold using hinges and clasps for easy access.
Place the mold in your garden near the watermelon vine. When the fruit is about the size of a softball, gently insert it into the mold. Secure the mold around the young watermelon, ensuring it’s centered and has room to grow.
Monitoring Growth Inside the Mold
Once the watermelon is inside the mold, regular monitoring is crucial. Check the fruit every few days to ensure it’s growing properly and filling out the corners of the mold. Adjust the position if necessary to maintain even growth.
As the watermelon grows, it will naturally conform to the shape of the mold. Be patient, as this process can take several weeks. Ensure the plant receives adequate water and sunlight throughout this period.
When the watermelon has filled the mold completely, it’s ready for harvest. Carefully remove the fruit from the mold and enjoy your unique, square-shaped watermelon.
Harvesting
Harvesting square watermelons requires careful timing and proper techniques to ensure the best flavor and quality. Knowing when and how to harvest is crucial for enjoying the fruits of your labor.
Identifying Ripe Square Watermelons
Square watermelons are ready for harvest 70 to 85 days after planting. Check the tendril closest to the fruit; it should be brown and dry. The bottom spot where the melon rests on the ground will turn from white to creamy yellow when ripe.
Tap the watermelon gently. A ripe melon produces a hollow sound, while an unripe one sounds more solid. The skin should be dull and hard to scratch with a fingernail.
Look for a uniform shape and color. A ripe square watermelon will have filled out its mold completely, with crisp edges and flat sides.
Harvesting Techniques
Cut the watermelon from the vine using sharp, clean pruning shears. Leave a short stem attached to prevent rot and maintain freshness.
Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising. Square watermelons are more delicate than their round counterparts due to their shape.
Harvest in the morning when temperatures are cooler. This helps preserve the melon’s freshness and flavor. Wear gloves to protect your hands from any prickly vines.
After harvesting, gently clean the watermelon with a damp cloth. Store it in a cool, dry place until ready to eat. Square watermelons can be kept at room temperature for about a week or refrigerated for up to two weeks.
Additional Creative Ideas
Square-shaped produce offers a unique gardening experience. Experimenting with different fruits and vegetables can yield interesting results and spark creativity in the garden.
Beyond Watermelons
Tomatoes, squash, and pumpkins are excellent candidates for square shaping. Tomatoes can be grown in cube-shaped molds to create perfectly stackable fruits. Square squash adds visual interest to vegetable displays. Pumpkins shaped into cubes make for eye-catching Halloween decorations.
To shape these vegetables:
- Select small, young fruits
- Place them in rigid square molds
- Secure the molds as the plants grow
- Monitor growth and adjust as needed
Square-shaped produce requires careful attention to prevent rot or damage. Proper ventilation and regular inspections are crucial for success.
Personalizing Your Project
Customizing square produce adds a personal touch to gardening projects. Experimenting with different mold materials like wood, plastic, or metal can affect the final appearance. Adjusting mold sizes creates varied cube dimensions.
Creative ideas include:
- Initialing fruits with custom molds
- Creating themed shapes for special occasions
- Growing mini cubes for unique garnishes
Gardeners can also explore colorful varieties of fruits and vegetables to enhance visual impact. Combining square shaping with heirloom varieties produces distinctive results.
Sharing square produce at farmers’ markets or garden shows can spark conversations and inspire others to try this unique gardening technique.