My Watermelons Are Dying on the Vine

Watering

• The amount of water your watermelon plants receive affects the melons’ growth. Too little causes small melons to die. Too much water leads to a variety of diseases that damage and kill the fruit. Watermelons do not need much watering unless there is very little rainfall for a prolonged period. If the leaves begin wilting and turning yellow, the plant needs water.

Temperature

• Watermelons require warm temperatures to thrive. Colder temperatures inhibit the growth of new melons, and freezing temperatures kill the entire watermelon plant, including any melons on its vines. Ideal temperatures for a young watermelon plant are between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, although a slightly lower temperature does not harm the plant. Once the plant nears full growth, it withstands slightly cooler temperatures.

Over Ripening

• Watermelons rot if left on the vine too long. This is a common problem with small watermelon crops. Although knocking on a watermelon often indicates its ripeness, this method is not always effective. The best time to pick your watermelon is when the tendrils on the stem of the melon begin turning brown, the surface color of the melon starts to grow dull and when the melon’s bottom becomes yellowish.

Animal and Pest Problems

• Animals and pests kill watermelons while they are on the vine. During very dry periods, pheasants and other wildlife may poke a hole into your melons in order to get at the water inside. Cucumber beetles are common pests that will eat your watermelons. A strong fence protects your melons from wildlife, while insecticide can keep cucumber beetles from getting at your watermelons.