Growing square watermelons is an innovative method to cultivate unique, cube-shaped fruit, primarily for novelty, ease of storage, or aesthetic appeal. The process relies on guiding the watermelon's growth within a restrictive mold.
Understanding Square Watermelons
Square watermelons are not a special variety but rather ordinary watermelons that have been molded into a cubic shape during their growth. This practice originated in Japan and has gained popularity as a unique horticultural endeavor. The transformation from a round fruit to a square one is a straightforward mechanical process that influences the fruit's external shape without altering its internal composition or flavor.
The Essential Tool: A Custom Box
The cornerstone of growing square watermelons is the use of a specialized container or box. This mold is crucial for shaping the fruit as it expands.
- Box Dimensions: The ideal box should be 8 inches square by 12 inches deep. These dimensions provide sufficient space for a medium-sized watermelon to grow into the desired shape.
- Drainage: It is imperative that the box has an opening at the bottom large enough for rainwater to run out. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot or fungal diseases, ensuring the healthy development of the fruit.
For clarity, here's a summary of the box specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Shape | Square |
| Width | 8 inches |
| Length | 8 inches |
| Depth | 12 inches |
| Bottom | Open for drainage |
| Material | Sturdy, often acrylic |
Step-by-Step Growing Process
Cultivating a square watermelon requires careful timing and consistent care. Follow these steps to guide your watermelon into a cube:
- Select a Healthy Vine: Choose a robust watermelon vine that is actively producing fruit. It's best to select a single, promising fruit on the vine for this experiment to ensure it receives ample nutrients.
- Timing is Key: Wait until the watermelon fruit is about the size of a softball before placing it into the custom box. If the fruit is too small, it might not properly fill the mold; if too large, it may not fit or could be damaged during placement.
- Positioning the Fruit: Carefully place the softball-sized watermelon into the custom-made box. Ensure the vine leading to the fruit is not kinked or damaged during this process. The box should ideally be positioned in a stable manner to prevent it from moving as the fruit grows.
- Consistent Watering: Once the watermelon is encased, be sure to water the vine often. Water is essential for the fruit's growth and expansion. Regular and adequate watering will help the watermelon fill the mold uniformly.
- Monitoring Growth: As the watermelon continues to grow within the confines of the box, its natural expansion will be restricted, causing it to become flat on all four sides. Monitor the fruit regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation.
- Harvesting: Harvest the square watermelon once it reaches maturity and has fully filled the mold. The typical indicators of ripeness (e.g., dull thumping sound, yellowing ground spot) still apply.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow your own square watermelon, a fascinating example of how gardening techniques can be adapted for unique results. For more on unique gardening trends, explore resources from reputable agricultural and horticultural sites like Delaware Gazette.
