So just about 2 weeks ago, I did a post on how to speed up germination and testing seed stocks. Since then, my little watermelons have germinated and have now been transplanted.
I wanted to show you what they looked like at that after germination. (This is also a great exercise for children to teach them about the stages of plant growth.)
I know it is a little hard to see, but off the end of the seed is a little yellow-green piece. Once I see these growths (which is the seed leafs coming out and a rootlet developing), I try to get them in soil. I admit I have totally forgotten them in the past and they continued growing. It’s okay. Still transplant them, for some of my strongest plants have been transplanted later than I would have preferred. The biggest thing if you do a late transplant is that you are careful with those developing roots. If you must (or if you don’t feel confident moving them), then cut up your paper towel and plant it too. The paper towel will not harm your plant and can help keep that root intact.
When the plants get a little bigger, I’ll post a picture of them too.
Remember, there is still time to get seeds for a harvest this year. If you’re interested in growing some heirloom varieties, please check out the Penn State Schuylkill Seed Bank & Library.
Happy Gardening!