Watermelon Seeds,
Georgia Rattlesnake

Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost or direct sow after soil temperatures reach 70°F. Transplant outdoors only after the last frost has passed and nights remain consistently above 55°F. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow 2–3 seeds per hill, 1 inch deep, in mounded soil for improved drainage. Space hills 3–4 feet apart and thin to one strong seedling per hill. For row planting, space plants 3–4 feet apart in rows 5–6 feet apart. Avoid planting in soil where other cucurbits were grown the previous season.

Water deeply once or twice per week depending on rainfall, and reduce watering as fruits mature. Apply balanced organic fertilizer at planting and again when vines start running. Use row covers to protect seedlings from pests early on, removing them when flowering begins to allow pollination.

• Allow fruit to ripen fully and cure on the vine before harvesting.
• Scoop seeds from the flesh and rinse in a strainer to remove pulp.
• Spread seeds on a screen or paper towel in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight for 7-10 days.
• Stir daily to ensure even drying.
• Once completely dry, store in an labeled, airtight container in a cool, dark place.