The Best Types of Watermelons to Grow in Montana

Growing watermelons in Montana can be a rewarding challenge due to the state’s short growing season and cooler climate. Montana’s summers are warm, but the growing season can be as short as 90 days in some areas, making it essential to choose watermelon varieties that mature quickly. By selecting the right types, gardeners in Montana can still enjoy sweet, juicy watermelons. This article will explore the best watermelon varieties to grow in Montana and provide tips for maximizing your harvest.

Challenges of Growing Watermelons in Montana

Montana’s primary challenge for watermelon growers is the short growing season. Watermelons require a long, warm period to develop fully. Additionally, Montana’s cooler nights, even in summer, can slow the growth of heat-loving crops like watermelons. Therefore, it’s important to select early-maturing varieties that can thrive in this environment.

Best Watermelon Varieties for Montana

  1. ‘Sugar Baby’

    • Days to Maturity: 75-80 days
    • Size: 6-12 pounds
    • Characteristics: ‘Sugar Baby’ is a classic heirloom variety known for its small size and sweet, dark red flesh. It’s perfect for Montana’s short growing season because it matures quickly and doesn’t require as much heat as larger varieties. The compact size also makes it easier to grow in smaller garden spaces.

  2. ‘Golden Midget’

    • Days to Maturity: 70 days
    • Size: 3-5 pounds
    • Characteristics: ‘Golden Midget’ is an ultra-early variety that turns golden yellow when ripe. The flesh is sweet and pink, and its small size makes it ideal for quick harvests. This variety is particularly suited to Montana because it ripens in just 70 days, allowing you to enjoy watermelons even in areas with very short growing seasons.

  3. ‘Blacktail Mountain’

    • Days to Maturity: 70-75 days
    • Size: 6-12 pounds
    • Characteristics: ‘Blacktail Mountain’ was specifically developed to thrive in cooler climates like those in Montana. It’s a small, round watermelon with dark green skin and sweet, red flesh. This variety is highly adaptable and can withstand the cooler nights typical of Montana summers.

  4. ‘Minnesota Midget’

    • Days to Maturity: 65-70 days
    • Size: 3-6 pounds
    • Characteristics: Although typically grown as a cantaloupe, this small melon variety can be grown similarly to watermelons in Montana gardens. With a quick maturation time, it’s a good option for those looking for fast-growing melons that fit the short summer window.

  5. ‘Early Moonbeam’

    • Days to Maturity: 75 days
    • Size: 8-12 pounds
    • Characteristics: ‘Early Moonbeam’ is another excellent early-maturing variety. This yellow-fleshed watermelon has a sweet, crisp texture and is known for its reliability in cooler climates. Its bright yellow flesh adds a unique touch to your garden harvest.

Tips for Growing Watermelons in Montana

  1. Start Indoors: Since the growing season is short, starting watermelon seeds indoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost date can give your plants a head start. Transplant seedlings outdoors once the soil temperature reaches at least 65°F and all danger of frost has passed.

  2. Use Black Plastic Mulch: Black plastic mulch helps to warm the soil and retain moisture, creating a more favorable environment for watermelon growth. The extra warmth can make a significant difference in Montana’s cooler climate.

  3. Choose a South-Facing Location: Plant watermelons in the warmest part of your garden, preferably a south-facing slope or raised bed, to maximize sun exposure and heat accumulation.

  4. Provide Adequate Watering: Watermelons need consistent moisture, especially during fruit development. Drip irrigation is ideal, as it keeps the soil moist while minimizing the risk of diseases like powdery mildew.

  5. Protect from Cool Nights: Even in summer, Montana’s nights can be cool. Consider using row covers or hoop houses to retain warmth during early growth stages or unexpected cold spells.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons in Montana is certainly possible with the right varieties and techniques. By focusing on early-maturing types like ‘Sugar Baby,’ ‘Golden Midget,’ and ‘Blacktail Mountain,’ you can enjoy sweet, homegrown watermelons despite the challenges of a short growing season. With some careful planning and the tips outlined above, your Montana garden can yield a bountiful harvest of these summertime favorites.