Watermelon - Citron

Minimum Seed Count: 10

A true heirloom classic grown for generations for its firm flesh and incredible preserving quality. Known for the bight red seeds these produce! Unlike traditional sweet watermelons, citron melons feature dense, crisp flesh and a thick rind, which is all full of natural pectin — perfect for making old-fashioned preserves, jams, jellies, and candied rind!

Vigorous vines produce hard, storage-friendly fruit that keeps well after harvest. A must-grow variety for homesteaders, gardeners who love traditional recipes, and anyone looking to add something unique to their melon patch.

Growing Guide:

Botanical Name: Citrullus lanatus
Type: Warm-season heirloom melon

🌞 Planting

• Sow seeds outdoors after last frost when soil reaches at least 70°F.

• Plant 1 inch deep.

• Space hills 4–6 feet apart, or rows 6–8 feet apart.

• Full sun is essential (8+ hours daily).

🌡️ Soil & Water

• Prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter.

• Keep soil consistently moist during germination and vine growth.

• Reduce watering slightly once fruit matures to prevent cracking.

🌿 Growth Habit

• Vigorous, sprawling vines.

• Large leaves provide good fruit protection from sunscald.

• Fruits have thick, hard rinds and dense flesh.

⏳ Days to Maturity

• Typically 90–100 days from transplant.

🍉 Harvest

• Harvest when rind hardens and ground spot turns creamy yellow.

• Unlike sweet watermelons, citron melons are grown for preserves and will store well after harvest.