As larger melons prefer higher temperatures, it"s essential to start Shiny Boy Hybrid Watermelons indoors in cooler or northern climates. Transplant seedlings after these non-GMO seeds have grown indoors, in a warm location 4-6 weeks before your region"s final frost. Sow Shiny Boy seeds in either pea pots or any biodegradable seed starting container of your choice. Plant seeds ½-1" deep, with 2-3 in each cell. If you live in a warmer climate or southern region, Shiny Boy Hybrid Watermelon seeds can be sown directly for longer growing seasons as early as May. Before planting, it"s a general tip to mend and pre-garden your soil by digging a mini reservoir and preparing a fertile mound. First, shovel a hole at least 1" deep and 3" wide, then mix in compost and place 6" of enriched soil on top of the mound. This will develop a rich bed to nurture your watermelon crop. Plant seeds 1" deep in raised hills with 6-8" spaced in between rows. It"s recommended to space up to 12" if needed, especially for the large seed varieties. After the young plants have at least one set of true leaves, thin down to the 2 strongest plants for each hill. Shiny Boy Hybrid Watermelons prefer a nitrogen-generous fertilizer and grow best with row covers or mulch. Don"t overwater watermelon plants, especially during their final fruit-ripening phase, but give at least 1" per week in their early development.
