Black Diamond Watermelon

Black Diamond Watermelon is a large, oblong-shaped watermelon variety with a dark green rind that turns almost black when fully ripe. The flesh of this watermelon is deep red, juicy, and sweet, with a slightly grainy texture.

This variety was first introduced in the late 1800s by the Harris Seed Company in Coldwater, Michigan, and quickly became a popular choice for home gardeners and farmers. It was particularly well-suited to the hot, humid conditions of the American South, where watermelon is a staple crop.

Black Diamond Watermelon gained popularity in the early 1900s when it became a major commercial crop in Georgia. Farmers in the region began cultivating the variety on a large scale, and it soon became known as the “King of the Watermelons” due to its exceptional size and flavor.

Materials:

seeds
Garden soil or potting soil
A trowel or shovel
A watering can or hose with a gentle sprayer attachment
Organic fertilizer
Mulch (optional)

Steps:

Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Watermelons require plenty of sunshine and warm soil to thrive, so select a spot with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining and free from rocks or debris.

Prepare the soil. Using a trowel or shovel, loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches. Add some organic fertilizer to the soil to provide the nutrients needed for healthy growth.

Sow the seeds. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep into the soil, placing 3 to 4 seeds in each hole. Space the holes about 4 to 6 feet apart to provide ample room for the vines to grow. Cover the seeds with soil and gently press down the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Water the seeds. Using a gentle sprayer attachment, water the soil well but not excessively, making sure not to wash away the seeds. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around 7 to 10 days.

Thin the seedlings. Once the seedlings have grown to around 2 inches tall, thin them to one plant per hole. This ensures that the plants have enough room to grow and develop. You can use scissors to snip off the extra seedlings at the soil line.

Provide proper care. Watermelons need plenty of water to grow, but it’s important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. It is also a good idea to apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing. Fertilize the plants with organic fertilizer every two to three weeks to provide the nutrients needed for healthy growth.

Harvest the watermelons. Black Diamond watermelons are ready to harvest when the fruit has a deep green or black rind and sounds hollow when thumped.  The curly tendril near the fruit stem will turn brown and dry and the surface of the fruit turns from glossy to dull.  The ground side of the watermelon turns to yellow.    The curly tendril near the fruit stem will turn brown and dry and the surface of the fruit turns from glossy to dull.  The ground side of the watermelon turns to yellow.

Cut the watermelon from the vine using a sharp knife, leaving a few inches of stem attached to the fruit. Enjoy the sweet, juicy taste of your home-grown watermelon! 

Today, Black Diamond Watermelon remains a popular variety among watermelon enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy the unique flavor and texture of heirloom varieties. It is also a popular choice for farmers and gardeners who are looking for a hardy, high-yielding watermelon variety that can withstand hot, humid growing conditions.Watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit that is packed with nutrients and has several potential health benefits. Here are some of the historical medicinal benefits of watermelon:

Hydration: Watermelon is over 90% water, making it an excellent food to help you stay hydrated.

Anti-inflammatory properties: Watermelon contains antioxidants, such as vitamin C and lycopene, that may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Heart health: Watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that can help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, which may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Digestion: Watermelon is high in fiber, which can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.

Skin health: Watermelon is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production and may help protect the skin from sun damage.

Muscle soreness: Watermelon contains an amino acid called L-citrulline, which may help reduce muscle soreness and improve exercise recovery.

It’s worth noting that while watermelon has many potential health benefits, it should not be considered a replacement for medical treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.