THE WATERMELON 



8l 



was an old, sandy loam pasture, with an easterly to southern 

 exposure. In the spring the ground was replowed the last 

 week in April and harrowed every week until planted the 

 22d of May. This destroyed many of the weed seeds con- 

 tained in the top soil, and also left the ground very light and 

 friable, which is quite an important consideration. Mr. Hall 

 claims that with this preparation the plants send out good 

 runners and feeders, which are needed for success. 



Fig. 3. — Light Green Watermelons. 



Light Icing. Sweet Heart. 



White Gem. Seminole. 



Gray Monarch. 



While watermelons may be grown on almost any soil, 

 excepting, perhaps, a heavy clay one, tliey thrive best on a 

 rich, warm sandy loam, that is well supplied with humus. 

 A southern slope is {^referable, although not necessary for 

 success, as it hastens maturity and furnislies early natural 

 drainage, which is very essential, especially in a cold and wet 

 season. 



