Watermelon is relatively easy to grow! It takes a long season and thrives in hot weather. Growing sweet, juicy homegrown watermelons is interesting work for many gardeners. Nothing beats the taste of sweet, juicy watermelon on a hot summer day. So, let's get expert tips for growing watermelons in your own spring and summer garden.

Common name: Watermelon
Botanical name: Citrillus lunatus
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Plant type: Annual fruiting vine
Sun exposure: Full sun
Soil type: Loamy, sandy, well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 6.8)
Hardiness zones: Grown as an annual in zones 2 to 11
Native areas: Western Africa