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formerly RGG

Last year I dug a large pit and filled it partly with some bags of Miracle Grow potting soil. I left this pit unfilled enough to pour in large amounts of water without it spilling out. I have since learned that a hill is best since it warms better in cold weather and watermelons are a heat loving plant.I am sure the larger the hill the better as far as diameter goes. My question is what is the best height for a hill.I think it would be difficult for the roots of the melon plant to spread through the garden if the hill is too high. I mean the roots would have to grow down to the level of the garden and then turn outward to spread out. Some people may think that nearly all the roots would be maintained within the hill but I have read that they can spread out for several feet. So does anyone have a recomendation about how tall a hill should be?

3/22/2009 9:55:20 PM

Rochester, Minnesota

I do not use a noticeable hill. I certainly do not use a depression. The roots spread out many feet, and generally do not go very deep.

There. I believe I said all that without actually answering your question.

3/23/2009 10:27:49 AM

sevierville, Tn

Mine was probally no more than a few inches raised. Just enough to have the water drain away from the stump.

3/23/2009 4:59:13 PM

Alabama

Tennessee Dreamer I dig pits like you do, however you need a small hill for good drainage (1-3 in) like smoky mtn pumpkin said. As far as the root system goes, I dug up 5 plants last year and found roots as large as a pencil out to 20 feet, only one had a tap root the others had 5-8 roots that grew in all directions about 2in deep.

3/23/2009 9:16:38 PM

Rochester, MN

I normally mound up about a 5x10ft area about 6" higher...I still have problems with stumps rotting...so might add some sand around the stump this year.

3/24/2009 10:28:11 PM

I make a "ridge" by plowing one diection, and then plowing back throwing the next furrow against the first one. after the plants are growing, I go back and plow another furrow as needed, plowing down compost every time.

3/30/2009 6:13:15 PM