‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon

Citrullus lanatus

Product code : WESTO-0280

‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon is a watermelon cultivar selected for home food or ornamental gardens. It prefers full sun and light, warm, well-drained soil. Start indoors about one month before transplanting or direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost. Sow about 6 to 13 mm deep. Allow 45 to 90 cm between plants; about 1.8 m between rows. Even moisture during growth and fruit set; reduce near ripening. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients.
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Detailed plant guide
Advice adapted to Canada
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Quantity
20 to 25 seeds
Exposure
Full sun
Life cycle
Annual

Discover the plant

Common nameWatermelon
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusCitrullus
Specieslanatus
CultivarCrimson Sweet
Typefruit
Botanical nameCitrullus lanatus

‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) ‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon is distinguished by dark green, light green, red, yellow, long fruit with a sweet flavour. It is a clearly identified watermelon cultivar for gardeners who value dependable sowing information and a well-labelled crop. Its botanical identity is Citrullus lanatus. Plan this variety for a home vegetable plot, raised bed, or suitable container, according to its mature size and growing requirements. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.

Start indoors about one month before transplanting or direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost. Sow about 6 to 13 mm deep. Keep the seedbed evenly moist through emergence. Allow 45 to 90 cm between plants; about 1.8 m between rows. Provide full sun and avoid standing water. A germination temperature of 27 to 32°C is appropriate for this crop. Thin crowded seedlings early and harden indoor-started plants gradually before transplanting. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.

‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon is grown for the edible portions normally harvested from this type of crop. Pick only healthy produce at the appropriate stage, handle it carefully, and rinse it according to the intended preparation. Maintain even moisture during growth and fruit set; reduce near ripening. Keep the planting accessible for observation, watering, harvest, or grooming. Use clean tools, remove damaged material, and store unused seed in a cool, dry, dark location. Choose compatible neighbouring plants and maintain enough room for air circulation. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season.

Illustration associée à Melon d’eau Crimson Sweet, dans la gamme Weston. Crimson Sweet donne des pastèques arrondies à rayures vertes et à chair rouge, à laisser mûrir sur le plant. Le visuel permet de repérer la référence et l’aspect présenté pour cette sélection. Les dimensions et les couleurs observées au jardin dépendent du stade de croissance et des conditions de culture.

Sowing guide

It all startswith a seed.

Sowing depth

6 to 13 mm

Germination temperature

27 to 32°C

Sowing period

Start indoors about one month before transplanting or direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost

Propagation

Seed

Growing method

Prepare a clean seedbed or containers with light, warm, well-drained soil. Start indoors about one month before transplanting or direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost. Sow about 6 to 13 mm deep unless the packet gives a more specific direction. Use the following spacing as the crop develops: 45 to 90 cm between plants; about 1.8 m between rows. Keep the medium evenly moist during emergence without leaving it saturated. Provide full sun and good air movement. Thin crowded seedlings early so the remaining plants develop without unnecessary competition. Harden indoor-started plants gradually before transplanting them outdoors after the appropriate frost date. Even moisture during growth and fruit set; reduce near ripening. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Use clean tools for harvest and remove damaged plant material when it appears. Always follow the packet information when a variety-specific direction differs from general guidance. A simple garden label makes the cultivar easy to identify from sowing through harvest or flowering.

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Watering

Even moisture during growth and fruit set; reduce near ripening. Check moisture at soil level instead of watering only by schedule. Water gently during germination so seeds are not displaced, then direct irrigation toward the root zone. Avoid standing water and adjust frequency after rain. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.

Soil type

‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon performs best in light, warm, well-drained soil. Loosen compacted ground before sowing and remove large stones or persistent weeds. Mature compost may improve poor soil, but avoid creating a heavy or waterlogged seedbed. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients.

Fertilization

Prepare the soil with mature compost when fertility is low. A light, balanced fertilizer may be used according to its label, but excessive feeding can cause weak or unbalanced growth. Observe leaf colour and plant development before adding more nutrients. Water after any application. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.

Moisture

Even, without standing water

Seasonal care

At sowing time, prepare light, warm, well-drained soil and follow this timing: Start indoors about one month before transplanting or direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost. Keep the surface moist until emergence, label the row, and thin seedlings according to the recommended spacing. During active growth, provide full sun and monitor soil moisture, weeds, and leaf condition. Even moisture during growth and fruit set; reduce near ripening. In warm or windy weather, check containers and exposed beds more frequently. Remove damaged material and keep enough space for air circulation. At harvest or after flowering, use clean tools and clear unhealthy debris. Healthy residue may be composted where appropriate. At the end of the season, clean containers and tools, record useful observations, and store remaining seed in a cool, dry, dark place. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Use clean tools for harvest and remove damaged plant material when it appears. Always follow the packet information when a variety-specific direction differs from general guidance. A simple garden label makes the cultivar easy to identify from sowing through harvest or flowering. Check young plants frequently because small moisture or pest problems are easier to address early.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Recommended pot size

Drained container suitable for adult development; see growing tips.
If potting, allow sufficient volume for the roots and only use a trellis if it provides stable support for growth and fruit. Crimson Sweet can be tracked by the development of fruits with striped rinds. The stripes identify the expected appearance but are not the sole indicator of maturity; also observe the contact point with the ground and the evolution of the nearby stem. Prepare a loose, enriched soil according to its needs, with drainage that prevents young roots from sitting in water after rain. During fruit development, water the soil regularly and monitor containers exposed to wind, which can dry out between waterings. Distribute nutrients according to initial fertility and fertilizer label; first address any lack of water before attributing all weaknesses to nutrition. Maintain a warm, bright area where stems can spread without covering neighboring rows; leave fruits accessible to monitor their maturity. In summer, gently lift the foliage to locate hidden fruits and ensure that stems are not constricted by ties. Remove forgotten fruits and diseased residues at the end of cultivation, then clean supports before reusing them. Crimson Sweet produces rounded watermelons with green stripes and red flesh, to be left to ripen on the plant. Wash the rind before cutting and keep ready-to-serve pieces separate from peels. Start melons in individual pots a few weeks before planting or sow outdoors once the soil is well warmed and frosts have passed.
Illustration associée à Melon d’eau Crimson Sweet, dans la gamme Weston. Crimson Sweet donne des pastèques arrondies à rayures vertes et à chair rouge, à laisser mûrir sur le plant. Le visuel permet de repérer la référence et l’aspect présenté pour cette sélection. Les dimensions et les couleurs observées au jardin dépendent du stade de croissance et des conditions de culture.

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

38 to 56 cm (15–22 in)

Width / spread

152 to 183 cm (60–72 in)

Fruiting

Crimson Sweet produces rounded watermelons with green stripes and red flesh, which should be allowed to ripen on the plant. Crimson Sweet is characterized by the development of fruits with striped rinds. Wash the rind before cutting and keep ready-to-serve pieces separate from the peels. Start melon seeds in individual pots a few weeks before planting, or sow outdoors once the soil is well warmed and frosts have passed. Maintain a warm and bright area where the vines can spread without covering neighboring rows; leave the fruits accessible to monitor their ripeness.

Days to maturity

75 to 80 days — supplier benchmark

Harvest

Crimson Sweet is followed by the development of fruits with striped rinds.
Illustration associée à Melon d’eau Crimson Sweet, dans la gamme Weston. Crimson Sweet donne des pastèques arrondies à rayures vertes et à chair rouge, à laisser mûrir sur le plant. Le visuel permet de repérer la référence et l’aspect présenté pour cette sélection. Les dimensions et les couleurs observées au jardin dépendent du stade de croissance et des conditions de culture.

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Place low-growing crops away from the stems and shade of the trellis; space compatibility matters more than the promise of protection from a neighboring plant. Maintain a warm, bright area where the stems can spread without covering neighboring rows; keep fruits accessible to monitor their maturity. Crimson Sweet produces round watermelons with green stripes and red flesh, to be left to ripen on the plant. In pots, allow sufficient root volume and only provide a trellis if it can stably support the plant's growth and fruit.

Recipe idea

From the gardento your plate.

Edible parts

Fruit
For four desserts, prepare 400 g (14 oz) of ripe Crimson Sweet watermelon flesh, 250 ml (1 cup) of plain yogurt, and 15 ml (1 tbsp) of honey, to taste. Wash the fruit before cutting it, including the melon rind, to limit the transfer of dirt by the knife. Remove inedible parts and cut into bite-sized pieces. Divide the yogurt among four bowls, add the fruit, and add honey according to the fruit's sweetness. Keep portions refrigerated until serving and use a clean cutting board for any new cuts. Rapidly cool leftovers in a shallow container and refrigerate. This preparation is for a meal; it is not a method of preservation at room temperature. Wash the rind before cutting and keep ready-to-serve pieces separate from peels. Stripes indicate the expected appearance but are not the sole indicator of ripeness; also observe the ground contact area and the evolution of the nearby stem. Taste a cooked piece to check the texture before removing the dish from the heat; adjust seasoning in small amounts rather than adding everything at once. Present the preparation in a clean dish and keep utensils used for raw harvesting separate from those used for the meal.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

How should ‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon be sown?
Start indoors about one month before transplanting or direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost. Prepare light, warm, well-drained soil. Sow about 6 to 13 mm deep. Keep the seedbed evenly moist until emergence without saturating it. Label the row and provide full sun. Thin crowded seedlings so the final spacing follows this guidance: 45 to 90 cm between plants; about 1.8 m between rows. If plants are started indoors, provide strong light and harden them gradually before transplanting outdoors at the appropriate time. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.
Which location is best for ‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon?
‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon prefers full sun and light, warm, well-drained soil. Choose a location that leaves enough room for 45 to 90 cm between plants; about 1.8 m between rows. Avoid low spots where water remains after rain. In a container, use drainage holes and a clean growing mix. Observe how light moves across the space during the day, especially near buildings or taller plants. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients.
How should ‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon be watered?
Even moisture during growth and fruit set; reduce near ripening. During germination, use a gentle spray or careful watering so seed is not displaced. After establishment, water at soil level when the surface begins to dry. Adjust frequency to rainfall, heat, wind, soil texture, and container size. Avoid standing water because roots still require oxygen. Morning watering can help foliage dry normally during the day. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients.
What maintenance does ‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon need?
Keep the planting labelled, weeded, and appropriately spaced. Check young plants regularly for wilting, chewing damage, discolouration, or crowding. Provide full sun and maintain the moisture pattern described for the crop. Use clean tools, avoid deep cultivation near established roots, and remove unhealthy debris. Apply any fertilizer or pest-control product only according to its label. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Use clean tools for harvest and remove damaged plant material when it appears.
When should ‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon be harvested?
Harvest ‘Crimson Sweet’ watermelon when the edible part reaches the stage described for the cultivar or on the packet. Pick during the cooler part of the day when practical and use clean tools. Remove damaged portions, rinse according to the intended preparation, and cool perishable produce promptly. Regular picking may extend production for crops that continue forming leaves, pods, or fruit. Stop using any plant material that appears spoiled or unidentified. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation.