How to Grow Watermelon in a Self-Watering Container

A self-watering plant container has a reservoir in the bottom that allows the soil to soak up moisture as it becomes dry. This ensures that the soil stays moist without requiring you to water the plants constantly. It is appropriate for watermelon plants because watering from overhead can lead to mildew formation. Growing a watermelon in a self-watering container requires that you provide a trellis for the vines and that you keep the reservoir full.

Potting soil
Trellis
Twist ties

Instructions

- 1
  Select a self-watering container that is at least 18 inches deep to accommodate the watermelon's root system. Fill the container's reservoir with water.
- 2
  Fill the container with potting soil. Insert the watermelon seed into the soil at a depth of 1 inch, then cover the seed with soil. Water the soil until it settles.
- 3
  Place the self-watering container in a warm spot that gets full sun. Set a 6-foot trellis next to the container. As the vining watermelon grows, tie the vine to the trellis loosely with twist ties.
- 4
  Refill the container's reservoir with water once a week. This ensures the reservoir never becomes dry. When the plant sets fruit, let the reservoir dry out until the fruit is ripe and you harvest it.

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