what is causing my watermelons to bust open
what is causing my watermelons to bust open while still small? I am growing a garden for the first time and am having problems with the watermelons splitting partially open way before ripe, a little larger than a softball. I live in North Central Florida region, and planted all seedlings in mulch and compost. I was told to put leaves around the plants to help hold in moisture and I fertilize weekly with 6-6-6. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Irregular watering can cause this as well as overwatering. Are these watermelons in the ground or in containers? We recommend watering twice a day for watermelons in containers, but for ones in the ground a few times a week is all that you would need. While leaves can help with moisture, I would recommend straw. Mulch is an effective way to retain moisture. This article will help you:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/watermelon/watering-watermelon.htm
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