Are there Astrakhan watermelons? What do we know about Astrakhan watermelons? And at this time

Watermelons from Astrakhan are a legendary product. This brand has a long history, dating back to the 7th-8th centuries. The taste of these watermelons was always so good that in 1660, Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich even issued an imperial decree to deliver the striped beauties to the royal table in Moscow. However, the Astrakhan variety and grown in Astrakhan region watermelon are not identical concepts. Even striping does not serve as its defining feature, since it is also characteristic of other varieties: the seedless “King of Hearts”, famous large size carolina cross etc.

Description of the variety

The famous Astrakhan watermelon as a separate variety was bred in 1977 through the efforts of the leading breeder of the All-Russian Research Institute of Irrigated Vegetable and Melon Growing K.E. Dyutin. This is a classic spherical or slightly oblong watermelon. The pulp of ripened fruits is bright red, juicy, aromatic, coarse-grained with a characteristic rather sweet taste. During dry periods, voids may appear in the fruits, which do not have any effect on taste qualities.

The peel is smooth with a pattern of alternating dark and light green spiky stripes. A watermelon of this variety must be thick-skinned. Average weight fruits about 8 - 10 kg. In terms of ripening period, it belongs to the mid-early variety - from the moment the seeds germinate, it ripens on 70-85 days. It is resistant to most diseases characteristic of melons and is convenient and unpretentious to grow. Characterized by high yield, excellent transportability and shelf-stable fruits - they can be stored for up to two and a half months.

What are the harm and benefits

Ripe watermelon is a unique dietary product that has virtually no contraindications when consumed regularly. In fact, 80% of its fruits consist of water, and the rest contains plant fiber, fructose, not a large number of glucose and sucrose, as well as trace elements. Watermelon is characterized by a pronounced diuretic effect, so its pulp is very useful for those suffering from diseases of the joints, heart and blood vessels. Fructose is absorbed in the human body without the cost of insulin, which means that the sweet-tasting fruit can be consumed even by patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

Striped juicy fruits are simply a storehouse of such a trace element as magnesium. With its chronic deficiency, blood pressure rises. It also promotes the binding of oxalates, which prevents the formation of kidney stones, and plays an important role in the processes of bile secretion and cholesterol deactivation. In addition, magnesium is involved in the normalization of intestinal motility, helps relieve muscle spasms and reduces nervous excitability.

In 100 grams of watermelon pulp, the content of this microelement, which is extremely important for human health, is as much as 224 milligrams. Only almonds can boast of a higher concentration. To satisfy the body's daily need for magnesium, it is enough to enjoy only 150 grams of ripe and tasty fruit.

This representative of melons and potassium is rich. True, its content is lower than in dried apricots, persimmons and bananas, beloved by adherents of many diets. Although if we also consider calorie content, then when consuming watermelon, the body will receive three times fewer calories compared to a banana.

However, it should be noted that watermelon is not good for everyone and not always. It should not be eaten by those suffering from diarrhea or intestinal upset. It is also contraindicated for those who are prone to edema. Diabetics should also be careful with this delicacy, given its high glycemic index.

In addition, harm from watermelon may be due to the use of certain chemicals during cultivation. Most often they are nitrates. Their use contributes rapid growth And heavy weight fruits But at the same time, such substances are stored in the pulp and enter the human body with it, causing either acute poisoning or chronic intoxication due to gradual accumulation.

Video “Watermelons in the middle zone”

Features of cultivation

If until recently the combination of the words “growing” and “watermelon” suggested hot southern climate, then today work on adaptation and acclimatization of its varieties and the emergence of new hybrids make it possible to grow striped fruits even in Western Siberia, however, only in greenhouses.

In the southern regions of Russia, the Astrakhan variety is grown by planting seeds in open ground. But in the regions middle zone and in the Moscow region they use the seedling method. At the same time, 4–5 weeks before planting on the site, the seeds are kept for 24 hours in a solution of manganese and zinc to protect future shoots from diseases. Then they are wrapped in cotton cloth or thin paper and placed in water, where they are left at a temperature of about +28 ° C until the sprouts appear.

After this, they are planted in separate containers filled with peat. When the plants have 3–4 leaves, you can begin planting seedlings. At the same time, a week before planting, the frequency of watering and temperature are gradually reduced. The main requirements for growing them in the regions of the middle zone are air heated to +21 - 29 ° C, a sunny place and the absence of weeds.

It should be noted that watermelons are quite sensitive to predecessors and do not like to grow after pumpkin, melon, cucumbers or cabbage. But they treat planting after peas, potatoes, beans or corn quite well. Seedlings are planted in soil with a light mechanical composition in holes up to 8 cm deep at a distance of about a meter. As representatives of melons, watermelons do not tolerate acidic soils.

Since they require a large amount of heat, the soil between the plants should be covered with a 4-5 centimeter layer of mulch, which increases the temperature of the soil by almost 10 °C and does not allow it to dry out. Also, during the period of active growth, plants should be fed with potassium-phosphorus mixtures and nitrogen.

The technology for growing watermelons involves weeding, loosening the soil and moderate watering. Remains of vegetation after weeding are immediately removed from the site. Being drought-resistant plants, watermelons are at the same time quite responsive to irrigation. During the period of growth of the main stem and leaves, they need increased watering. After fruiting begins, it is reduced to speed up the ripening of the fruit.

The main pests that can harm watermelon plantings are spider mite, aphids and wireworms. To prevent and combat them, the most common means is spraying with infusion of garlic or ash. Such treatment should stop a month before the start of harvest. Heavily infested plants should be removed from the site and burned.

What you need to know

Astrakhan watermelon begins to ripen no earlier than August and its harvest reaches its peak closer to September. Everything that appears on the shelves before this time may be early-ripening Dutch watermelons grown in the Astrakhan region, and often with the use of chemicals. Therefore, before purchasing, the fruit should be carefully examined. If you find a small, slightly rotten area with a dot in the center, this is a sure sign that saltpeter was injected inside with a syringe to accelerate growth.

To distinguish ripe when choosing good watermelon from bad, you should focus on a number of characteristic signs. The surface of the fruit should not have a dull coating and when reflected sunlight the highlight should be clearly visible on it. Yellow spot on a watermelon, the so-called “patch” is the place where the fruit comes into contact with the ground during growth. If it is small, then it ripened on its own comfortable conditions. A large patch is a sign of a lack of sunlight and heat; such a fruit will be watery and not sweet enough to taste.

The stalk or “tail” of a good watermelon is dried out and yellowish. If it has completely dried out, it means that the fruit has been stored plucked for quite some time. a long period. If the tail is completely removed, then the seller is hiding something and it is better not to take this copy. Also ripe watermelon When you tap it, it buzzes, and when you squeeze it with your hands, it crackles.

Video “Growing watermelon varieties”

There are a huge number of varieties of watermelon, and being able to properly grow a particular variety is not an easy task. This video will help you understand all the nuances.

Astrakhan watermelon- a variety grown throughout Russia, the main advantages of which are ease of care and high yield. You can also note the long shelf life of the fruit and its good resistance to transportation even over long distances.

All this makes the southern delicacy one of the most beloved among the population of our country. At proper cultivation and care, Astrakhan watermelon will not only be an excellent decoration for any table, but will also quench your thirst and saturate the body with useful substances.

Most farmers and gardeners prefer to grow this variety. This is due to the fact that Astrakhan watermelon is resistant to the development of pathologies inherent in melon crops, its fruits have excellent taste and are stored for more than 2 months, without losing their advantages.

The ripe fruit has a round or slightly oblong shape, its rind is smooth and even. Surface color dark green with light stripes, which have spiky edges. According to experts, the more obvious the difference between dark and light stripes, the more pronounced the taste of the fruit will be.

The flesh of a ripe watermelon is bright red. It is very sweet, juicy and aromatic. The seeds are usually dark brown or black in color. Main difference Astrakhan variety- presence of a thick crust.

Astrakhan watermelon is considered medium-early in ripening - the time from seed germination to full maturity is about 80 days. The size of a ripe berry ranges from 8 to 10 kg. It is very thermophilic and requires a sufficient amount of sunlight. Favorable conditions during cultivation they will provide the fruits with juiciness, sweet taste, pleasant color and aroma.

During a period of drought, voids may appear inside the watermelon, which do not in any way affect the quality of this melon crop. In this case, when squeezing, a slight cracking sound will be heard, indicating the ripeness of the watermelon.

Growing Astrakhan watermelon

Thanks to the adaptation of varieties to different climatic conditions, as well as the breeding of hybrids, it became possible to grow Astrakhan watermelon in any region of Russia.

Growing striped berries is carried out in two main ways:

• seedless;
• seedlings

The first planting option is typical for the southern regions, the second is practiced by farmers in the middle zone and the Moscow region.

At seedless method The seeds are sown in open ground, after soaking them in potassium permanganate. Dry seeds immediately begin to sow into the soil. The sprouted ones must be placed in a pocket made of fabric or gauze and filled with warm water. The water should be changed every day until small sprouts appear. Then you can start sowing.

The seedling method involves pre-germinating seeds. To do this, you need to spread the seeds treated with potassium permanganate on damp cloth or toilet paper and place them in the tray. In this state, the seeds are kept at a temperature of 25 to 30 °C.

After the sprouts appear, you need to take suitable containers (for example, disposable cups), fill them with humus, sand and turf or ready-made peat soil. The sowing depth should not exceed 4 cm. Then the seeds are covered with film and placed in a well-lit and warm place. After the first leaves appear, you can plant the seedlings in the ground.

The soil for planting the Astrakhan variety of watermelons should be light and loose. It must be prepared in the fall. This will require humus and other fertilizers suitable for feeding the crop (potassium-phosphorus mixtures, nitrogen, etc.).

If pumpkin, melon, cabbage or cucumbers previously grew on the site, there is a risk that the harvest will not be as rich as expected, and the fruits may change their taste. It is advisable to plant watermelons in soil in which peas, potatoes, corn and beans were grown.

The depth of the hole for planting seedlings should be no more than 6-8 cm. Watermelons are planted at a distance of 1 meter from each other. In order for the fruits to be large and fully formed, these rules must be followed.

Astrakhan watermelon seeds

You can buy Astrakhan watermelon seeds in any store in your city, as well as order them online. Due to the great demand for the Astrakhan variety among the residents of our country, the seeds are available to everyone who wants to plant this large, sweet berry on their plot.

You can purchase seeds in advance - in winter or early spring. Under appropriate conditions they can be stored for a long time. It is important to prevent moisture from getting on the seed packets and to avoid overheating them too much.

Before planting dry seeds, they must be soaked in a manganese solution. To do this, you need to pour warm water and add potassium permanganate to it so that you get enough bright color. Seeds can be wrapped in gauze and placed in ready solution for 30-40 minutes. Then they are planted in the ground.

Germinating seeds does not require much effort. We place them in a cloth or gauze moistened with water and place them in a specially prepared container. We change the water once a day or as the fabric dries. At this stage, it is important to observe the thermal regime: 30 °C during the day and not lower than 20 °C at night. As soon as the first shoots appear, you can begin planting.

Today you can buy seedlings of the Astrakhan variety of watermelons on the market or in specialized stores. The main thing is to correctly calculate the timing of seed germination and the time of planting seedlings in open ground. The ideal time for planting is the end of May, when the earth has warmed up enough sun rays and there are no frosts at night. Harvesting takes place in August and September.

Reviews of Astrakhan watermelon

Thanks to its resistance to the development of diseases inherent in melon crops, Astrakhan watermelon has become one of the most beloved varieties in all regions of Russia. Farmers and gardeners note its unpretentiousness in cultivation, long shelf life and good transportability. This variety does not require special care and additional funds for fertilizing and expensive fertilizers. Seeds are inexpensive and are sold in any city. Properly grown ripe fruits are in good demand on the market, so many summer residents plant watermelons for sale.

Reviews of Astrakhan watermelon indicate that most consumers prefer this particular variety. The main advantage is its juicy, aromatic, sweet and tender pulp. During the hot season, watermelon juice perfectly quenches thirst and is a dietary product. It is consumed fresh and pickled. There are many recipes using this product.

In addition to the excellent taste, buyers also note beneficial properties for the body. In their opinion, Astrakhan watermelon helps reduce blood pressure, and also helps get rid of swelling. Some claim that watermelon helps improve mood and improve general condition health.

Planting, care and collection are not particularly difficult. Even a novice summer resident can do this. Self-grown Astrakhan watermelon will not only be a wonderful table decoration, but also a source of vitamins and beneficial microelements. This surprisingly large striped berry will appeal to all family members.

The famous Astrakhan watermelon was bred as a separate variety in 1977. It has a classic spherical or slightly oblong shape, bright red aromatic, very juicy and sweet, coarse-grained pulp. Smooth thick striped skin. The average fruit weight is 8-10 kilograms. In the article we will tell you about the Astrakhan variety of watermelon, when it ripens, we will give reviews and recommendations for planting, care, and cultivation.

Astrakhan watermelon is one of the most large varieties of this plant, which has a special taste, color and size.

Description of watermelon variety Astrakhan

The main characteristics of the variety are presented in the table:

Features of growing watermelon variety Astrakhan

In the southern regions of Russia, this variety is grown by seeds in open ground. In the middle zone and Moscow region they use mainly seedling method. 4-5 weeks before planting, the seeds are kept for 24 hours in a solution of manganese and zinc to protect future shoots from diseases. Then they need to be wrapped in thin paper or cotton cloth and placed in water. There, at a temperature of +28 degrees, they will be left until the sprouts hatch.

Then they are planted in separate containers filled with peat. When the plants have 3-4 leaves, the seedlings can be planted in open ground. At the same time, a week before planting, the temperature and frequency of watering are gradually reduced. The main requirements for growing watermelons in the Moscow region and the middle zone are air heated to +21-29 degrees, the absence of weeds and a sunny place. Read also the article: → “Features of growing watermelons in the Moscow region.”

The Astrakhan watermelon became famous precisely because of its size; unlike most varieties, its fruits are very large.

Watermelons are very sensitive to predecessors. They grow poorly in places where pumpkins, melons, cucumbers, and cabbage were previously grown. And it’s good - where potatoes, beans, peas, and corn grew. The soil for seedlings should be light in mechanical composition. Seedlings are placed in holes at a distance of a meter, to a depth of up to 8 cm. Watermelons, like all other melons, do not like acidic soils.

Since watermelons need a lot of heat, the soil between the plants is covered with a 4-5 centimeter layer of mulch - this increases the temperature of the earth by almost 10 degrees and prevents it from drying out. During active growth, plants are fed with nitrogen and potassium-phosphorus mixtures. Read also the article: → “Mineral and organic fertilizers for watermelons: fertilizing scheme."

The technology for growing the Astrakhan variety of watermelon involves weeding, loosening, and moderate watering. Plant remains After weeding, it must be immediately removed from the site. Watermelons are drought-resistant, but respond very well to irrigation. When the main stem and leaves grow, the plants need to be watered heavily.

Tip #1. When fruiting begins, watering is reduced - this way the fruits will ripen faster.

Based on the type of Astrakhan watermelon, breeders developed the Rapid variety, which ripens in 58-60 days, and the hybrid Photon F1, which ripens in 65 days. Both of these types of watermelons are high-yielding and very tasty. They have a shelf life of 2-3 weeks, but are well transported. Resistant to fusarium.

How to care for Astrakhan watermelon

Watermelon seedlings are planted in late May - early June. The area for watermelons should be well heated, protected from the wind, and illuminated by the sun. It is advisable to arrange beds for watermelons in the south or southeast side. Good predecessors watermelons - alfalfa, sweet clover, sainfoin, winter wheat, onions, annual legumes. Artificial pollination is very effective. It should be done in the morning, at a temperature no higher than +18-20 degrees.

Tip #2. To speed up the growth of the lashes, they are pinched so that there are no more than 3-5 leaves above the watermelons. Deformed and weak shoots are completely removed.

There should be no more than five ovaries on one plant. The first fertilizing is applied to watering ditches located at a distance of 0.25 meters from the plants after the length of the lashes reaches 35-40 cm. During this period of plant development, liquid chicken manure diluted in a ratio of 1:20 or a solution based on mullein (1:10). The second fertilizing is applied before the active budding stage. The third - after the formation of the ovaries. Each feeding is supplemented with abundant watering. Read also the article: → “Rules for caring for watermelons in open ground and in a greenhouse.”

In the photo you can roughly imagine the size of the Astrakhan watermelon.

How to grow watermelon in the Moscow region

To extend the life of watermelons, it is better to grow them through seedlings in the Moscow region. The best results are obtained when planting watermelon seedlings at the age of 25-30 days. If you plan to plant seedlings under temporary shelters, then this should be done in the second half of May. If you want to immediately plant the seedlings in open ground, which is very risky in the Moscow region, especially if the spring is cold, then this should be done in early June.

Watermelon seedlings hatch 5-6 days after sowing, and for a sprout to emerge from a seed it takes the same amount of time, we conclude: in order to comply optimal timing, a time run of 35 days is required. This means that seed preparation should begin in early April, if temporary shelters are provided for the seedlings. If you plan to grow the crop only in open ground, then postpone the processing and sowing of seeds until April 25. At the same time, we should not forget that the Moscow region cannot boast of a warm climate.

But the problem is not hopeless. If you follow some recommendations, you can achieve good results.

1. In the spring you need to warm up the garden bed. To make the snow melt faster and the ground begin to thaw, scatter ash around the area in March. And in April, water the beds with very warm water and cover with film. By May, the soil should warm up so that plants can develop normally in it.
2. The seedless method may even be preferable, since experienced gardeners noticed: watermelon seedlings are much more sensitive to a lack of light than to a lack of heat. At home, it quickly stretches, and the seeds sown in open ground on May 2 germinate amicably and rapidly, and the plants from them then develop better and faster than from seedlings.
3. Cover the bed with film. This will quickly warm the soil. Watermelon roots require a temperature of about +30 degrees. And by the time the really hot days arrive, the garden bed will be completely covered with leaves that will absorb excess solar energy, so overheating will not occur. In addition, covering the beds with film is a method of weed control. And ultimately, it will keep the soil moist.
4. Remove cover from bushes as soon as possible. For plants, not only warmth, nutrition, water are important, but also direct rays of the sun and air. Most likely, only in May and the first week of June will you need to cover with film. Watermelon foliage is tough and strong, so it is unlikely to be damaged by a short-term cold snap. The main thing is to keep the roots warm.

What you need to know when choosing Astrakhan watermelon

Astrakhan watermelon begins to ripen in August, and the harvest reaches its peak closer to September. Those watermelons that appear on the shelves earlier are most likely early ripening ones. Dutch hybrids, often grown using chemicals. When examining such watermelons, you can find a slightly rotten area with a dot - this is a symptom of the fact that saltpeter was injected inside with a syringe to accelerate growth.

There should be no matte coating on the surface of a real Astrakhan watermelon, and a glare should be visible on it when sunlight is reflected. The yellow spot on the fruit is where the watermelon comes into contact with the ground. If it is small, it means that the watermelon has ripened in good conditions on one's own. A large spot indicates a lack of sunlight and heat.

This kind of watermelon is watery and not sweet enough. The “tail” of a good watermelon is yellowish and dried out. If it has dried out completely, it means the watermelon is already long time stored picked. If there is no “tail” at all, then it is better not to buy such a watermelon. When patted, a ripe watermelon hums and crackles when squeezed with your hands.

This is what the first ovaries of the Astrakhan watermelon look like close up.

Diseases and pests of Astrakhan watermelon

Among the diseases that affect watermelons, the most common are bacteriosis and powdery mildew. With the latter disease, the stems and leaves suffer: they turn yellow and die. If the disease progresses, the fruits suffer. With bacteriosis, brown spots appear on the leaves, which eventually spread to watermelons. Mullein infusion diluted with water in a ratio of 1:3 or fungicides will help in the fight against these diseases: Bordeaux mixture, Skor, Fundazol, Decis.

Mistakes when growing watermelons

Growing watermelons is a complex process. Even if all conditions are met, there is no guarantee that watermelons will grow large and tasty. It would seem that gardeners choose the sunniest areas for planting watermelons, water them very diligently, and weed them. As a result, they get small and sour fruits. Why?

1. Watermelons grow small if they are grown in black soil. It is rich in nitrogen, which feeds mainly the leaves. AND minerals there is no longer enough for fruit growth.
2. Experienced gardeners recommend planting watermelons not as seeds, but as seedlings. In this case, the likelihood of obtaining larger fruits increases. Care must be taken to ensure that the watermelons are positioned freely and do not interfere with each other’s growth.
3. As the fruits ripen, they must be turned over. Otherwise, moisture from rain will accumulate under them and they will begin to rot. In addition, ants will eat them. Anthills that appear near watermelons must be destroyed immediately.
4. Make sure that the garden is well fenced - birds may appear in the area and may eat the watermelons.

Unfortunately, not every climate is ideal for growing and propagating this plant.

Answers to questions about growing watermelons

Question No. 1. Can different varieties of watermelons be planted together?

Question No. 2. How to properly plant watermelon seedlings in the Moscow region?

In this region, it is better to plant seedlings in a greenhouse. Not earlier than mid-April. Care for seedlings in the same way as for cucumber or pumpkin. If your seedlings will continue to grow in the greenhouse, then it is better to tie the vines vertically. The ovaries, as they gain weight, will also need to be tied up, having first packed them in a supporting net.

Question No. 3. How to graft a watermelon onto a pumpkin?

Cucumbers and melons are usually grafted onto pumpkins. There is no point in vaccinating a watermelon that already has good disease resistance root system. However, I would like to talk about one method of vaccination - proximity. You need to cut the stem of the watermelon and pumpkin in half and tie them tightly, wrapping them in plastic. When they grow together, you should cut the stem of the watermelon from the bottom and the stem of the pumpkin from the top.

Question No. 4. Why did I only get one watermelon per bush?

At the watermelons female flowers appear en masse on side shoots. Therefore, as soon as three to five true leaves appear, the central shoot must be pinched. In the middle zone and in the Moscow region, it is generally advisable to leave no more than three fruits on the vine so that they have time to ripen. For this purpose, after setting the fruit, it is necessary to pinch the side shoots, and cut off the rest so that food is not wasted on them. Watermelons need to be watered only before fruit sets. Then reduce watering to a minimum or eliminate it altogether if it is very hot.

Astrakhan watermelons are legendary variety, which is grown throughout Russia. It is valued for its unpretentiousness, high yield and excellent taste. In addition, the berries of the variety are very shelf-stable and can be transported over long distances, which is appreciated by many farmers.

Description of the variety

The variety of Astrakhan watermelons was bred in 1977 by K.E. Dyutin. These watermelons have a smooth spherical shape. When ripe, their flesh is bright red in color and has excellent taste. In dry years, watermelons of this variety are prone to the formation of voids, which in no way affect their taste.

The rind of the Astrakhan watermelon is smooth, with a characteristic pattern of alternating dark and light green stripes with jagged edges. Distinctive feature This variety is obligatory thick-barked.

The average weight of these berries can be about 8 kg. According to the ripening period, Astrakhan watermelon belongs to the group of medium-early ones; from the moment the sprouts appear to the onset of maturity, it takes from 70 to 85 days.

This variety also has increased resistance to most diseases characteristic of melons, and its fruits after harvest can be stored for up to 2 months without losing their quality.

Sowing technology

Until recently it was believed that good harvest Watermelons can only be obtained in the southern regions of our country, but this belief is fundamentally wrong. With the advent of new varieties and hybrids, the geography of watermelon cultivation has expanded significantly.

There are two main ways to grow watermelons: seedlings and non-seedlings. The first is used in the middle zone with late spring and recurrent frosts, and the second in the south.

Astrakhan watermelon: growing (video)

Seedless method

With this method, watermelon seeds are sown directly into the soil. Before sowing, they must be disinfected in a rich pink solution of potassium permanganate. They are kept in it for about half an hour and then washed.

You can sow in the ground with dry or sprouted seeds. In the first case, sowing begins immediately after seed treatment. In the second, the treated seeds are placed in a bag made of thin fabric and filled with warm water. The water must be changed daily until sprouts appear. After which you can start sowing.

Seedling method

With the seedling method of growing, the seeds are also pre-etched in a solution of potassium permanganate. To improve germination, you can also add germination stimulants, for example, Epin. Next, the seeds need to be germinated. To do this, they are laid out on a tray, at the bottom of which several layers of toilet paper or cloth are placed and moistened with warm water. The container with soaked seeds is placed in a place with a temperature of about 28-30°C. At the same time, you must ensure that they do not dry out.

If all conditions are met, after 5-6 days the seeds will hatch and you can start sowing. For sowing, you can use any plastic cups or cassettes. They are filled with a mixture consisting of equal parts of humus, sand and turf land or use ready-made peat soil intended for growing seedlings.

The seeds are planted to a depth of no more than 3-4 cm. They can be sown either one at a time in a cup or cell, or 3 at a time. Next, to maintain moisture, it is recommended to cover the crops with a film, which must be removed immediately as soon as the shoots begin to appear.

After sowing is completed, the planting containers are placed in the warmest and brightest place, where they are kept until 3-4 true leaves appear. Caring for them at this stage consists of timely watering.

The most important thing when growing watermelon seedlings is to maintain the correct temperature. This is no more than 25° during the day and no lower than 16° at night. If you do not adhere to the required temperatures, the seedlings will stretch out very quickly.

At the time of planting seedlings in the ground, they should be about a month old. Knowing this, it is not difficult to calculate the approximate sowing time; in the middle zone it will be the first half of April, since the earth will warm up sufficiently only by mid-May. Also, a week before planting, seedlings must be hardened off. To do this, they take it out onto the balcony or veranda for a day.

Landing in the ground

Light and loose soils are best suited for planting watermelons. Also, this crop does not like to grow after cucumbers or pumpkins, but it does well with peas and beans. It is advisable to prepare areas for planting watermelons in the fall. To do this, humus is introduced into the digging in the fall.

Next, holes are made in the ground at a distance of 1 meter from each other. Watermelons love space and if the planting is too dense, it will not be possible to grow large fruits. 2 or 3 plants are placed in each hole. Planting watermelon seedlings is carried out together with a lump of earth from a container, The roots of young plants are very sensitive, so you need to act very carefully. Watermelon bushes are buried in the soil to the level of the cotyledon leaves.

Rules of care

Caring for watermelons involves regular watering, loosening, and weeding. This culture is very responsive to watering and fertilizing. But it is necessary to take into account that all fertilizing is carried out at the beginning of the growing season. The first time they are carried out after the young plants have begun to produce lashes. To do this, you can use mullein infusion and superphosphate. The second is during the formation of ovaries, and a group of potassium-phosphorus fertilizers is used.

Watering watermelons should not be frequent, but plentiful. These plants have a very long tap root, which very well obtains moisture even from great depths. When the fruits ripen, watering is stopped to speed up their filling.

Pests and diseases

Among the diseases, the watermelon crop is most often affected by powdery mildew and bacteriosis. Powdery mildew affects the leaves and stems, which first turn yellow and then die. With severe progression of the disease, even the fruits themselves suffer. To combat powdery mildew use mullein infusion, which is diluted in a ratio of 1:3 or special fungicidal preparations.

With bacteriosis, brown spots appear on the leaves of watermelons, which, when further development diseases also spread to fruits. To combat this disease, Bordeaux mixture or copper-based fungicidal preparations are used.

Harvesting

Peak ripening of Astrakhan watermelon occurs in August and September. They are collected as they ripen. The fruit from each bush will have to be removed over several periods. To collect, it is best to use pruning shears or a knife, which carefully cuts off the stalk of the plant. If you simply tear it off, there is a very high probability of damage to the fruit, after which they will quickly rot.

A sign of ripeness of watermelons is the dried stalk and tendrils. The rind of such berries appears smooth and shiny, and the side on which the watermelon lay on the ground becomes yellow. It is best to collect fruits in dry and clear weather.

How to plant a watermelon (video)

Growing watermelons of the Astrakhan variety does not represent special difficulties, even a novice gardener can handle this. And these striped berries grown with your own hands will become a real treat for all family members.

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Surprisingly, it is with watermelons that many fears and speculations among buyers are associated. Komsomolskaya Pravda tried to dispel most of the myths.

Myth one: Astrakhan and Volgograd watermelons are very different

If earlier they were engaged in selection a lot and productively, now this area is going through difficult times. So farmers in the Volgograd and Astrakhan regions plant the same early varieties - hybrids purchased in Europe. They may differ only in the conditions in which they grew. This year, both our neighbors in Astrakhan and ours, the weather was very unfavorable for watermelons. First it’s cold, then it’s over 50 degrees, now it’s raining. So the harvest of melons (as well as vegetables) is poor and an order of magnitude lower than last year. Less sun also affected the quality of the product - the taste is not so rich and bright.

Myth two: early varieties are dangerous to health

This is wrong.

Early varieties are all hybrid. They are grown under drip irrigation. Their ripening speed is faster than that of pure varieties. But this does not affect the safety of the product. Moreover, most melon growers receive certificates of conformity for their products. Samples are submitted to the laboratory for research on several parameters, including nitrates, - told “KP-Volgograd” melon grower Evgeny Morozov from the Bykovsky district. – So the certificate provides a guarantee. They can also come from Rospotrebnadzor And Rosselkhoznadzor.

Myth three: watermelons are easy to poison

No more often than other products. It’s not even the pulp that’s dangerous. The fact is that many people do not wash the watermelon before cutting it. And this definitely needs to be done. Watermelons are treated with pesticides every week to control pests. Therefore, a dangerous composition may end up on your plate. So wash the stripes thoroughly before serving.

Myth four: Bykov watermelons are the sweetest

Unfortunately, Bykov watermelons have not been in nature for a long time, - farmer Evgeny Morozov saddens us. - Of course, there are watermelons grown on Bykovo land. But even the famous “Chill” is no longer “Chill”. After all, in order to maintain the purity of a variety, breeding work is needed. But no attention has been paid to it in the last couple of decades.

Myth five: the price depends on the harvest

The price depends on resellers. When the harvest is bad, it is they who raise the price.

In mid-July, I gave watermelons for 4 rubles per kilogram, now I sell them for six,” says farmer Stanislav Khan. In stores and markets they are three to five times more expensive. So this year we won’t even recoup the cost. Although the demand for products is good - I have a queue of clients. But they still won’t raise the price.

In Russia, Astrakhan watermelon is very popular. What is good about this product and why are customers looking for it on store shelves? These questions must be answered gradually.

Astrakhan watermelon is a product that has been grown in Russia for several centuries. It all happened completely by accident, when traders from distant Persia brought their goods for sale back in the 12th century. Their path ran through the endless Astrakhan steppes. That's when local residents became acquainted with the new product. It turned out that the local fertile soil is perfect for growing an unusual crop. Things began to gradually gain momentum. And already in the 16th century, for the first time, Astrakhan watermelon became a crop own production. Then he ate this juicy strange berry with pleasure. It was specially brought to the table of the great monarch. Perhaps, it was since then that rounded striped fruits have firmly entered our lives. Thanks to the efforts of local field farmers, they became more accessible over time. And for Astrakhan itself, watermelon is now no longer just a product or an ordinary melon crop, but a real symbol of the city.

Product benefits

Few people know that Astrakhan watermelon, like any other representative of this species, can have a healing effect on the human body. Doctors recommend using it for people suffering from quite serious diseases. Oddly enough, this product helps restore the functioning of the kidneys, liver and gallbladder. It is used for gout, nosebleeds, anemia and even heart disease. The tender pulp of watermelon can cleanse the kidneys and remove harmful sand from them. Sometimes it even copes with small stones. Nutritionists advise to combat excess weight and obesity once a week. fasting days. At this time, it is recommended to eat up to three kilograms of pulp. True, this method of prevention should not be abused. Experts advise women who want to prolong their youth to drink tea from watermelon rinds. Two teaspoons of raw material per glass of boiling water will help maintain complexion and give the skin the desired elasticity.

Growing conditions

Astrakhan watermelons, when ripe, turn into a fruit that has a round and sometimes slightly oblong shape. Typically, from the moment of germination, this should take from 70 to 81 days. The product resembles a ball with smooth surface, on which a pattern of dark green stripes in the form of fancy spikes is applied. It has fiery red flesh with a distinct sweet taste. Over the years, breeders have managed to create several hybrids of the famous variety. Among them there are both early ripening individuals (Lolita, Zoryanka, Photon) and products early date ripening (Lunar, Rapid, Skorik, Melon Alice). In the former, maturity occurs already on the 55th day. The second ones become completely ready for consumption after 60 days. Both are highly transportable and retain pristine freshness for a whole month. This quality is considered especially valuable, because with its help it becomes possible to transport Astrakhan watermelons, when they ripen, for sale to the most remote corners of the country.

Should know

Watermelons have become a real brand for her. Even the name of the region is already associated mainly with this melon crop. Experts say that watermelons grown here are superior in all respects to representatives of other domestic regions and even some European countries. Here, in the small Volga town of Kamyzyak, there is even a real museum, the main exhibit of which is the notorious watermelon. Visitors can get acquainted with the history of this culture, find out how and where it came from in our country. unusual berry. Museum visits great amount tourists. An entire exhibition with ancient documents, unique photographs and living specimens has been developed for them. Local guides are true fans of their craft. Behind a short time they will provide those present with all known information about watermelons. Such an informative lecture will be interesting even to casual visitors.

Distinctive features

Many buyers at markets or store shelves choose Astrakhan watermelons. How to distinguish them from other varieties? This question interests many. You need to be able to choose any product. There are a number of indicators by which you can accurately determine a high-quality representative of this family. If everything is clear regarding the shape and color, then the pulp should be discussed separately. Everyone is accustomed to the fact that a good watermelon must be red. This belief has recently been refuted by Russian experts. Using experimental selection, they developed a variety of berries with orange and even orange pulp. yellow color. In terms of taste, these representatives are no worse. They are just as sweet and aromatic. The change in shade in them depends only on the increased carotene content. In addition, do not forget about the famous “patch”. This is a small yellow spot on the peel, which indicates that the fruit has been in contact with the ground. This means that it matured on its own. A dry tail and black seeds, in turn, indicate the stage of ripeness. Additionally, this can be checked by sound. In a ripe fruit it is sonorous, and when cut, a characteristic crack is produced.

A little history

Astrakhan watermelons appeared in Moscow quite a long time ago. When Peter the Great first tried this berry at the beginning of the 18th century, he was simply amazed. The unusual appearance and wonderful taste interested the emperor so much that he demanded to start growing this product in the fields near Moscow. True, the local climate turned out to be completely unsuitable for a heat-loving culture. The fruits ripened for a long time and reluctantly. After this, by order of the Tsar, they continued to be grown in Russia and were brought to Moscow every year. Not much has changed since then. Juicy watermelons are still brought to the capital. True, some argue that the quality of the product is noticeably deteriorating. There are known cases when berries were “pumped” with saltpeter to speed up their ripening. These types of stimulants are officially prohibited. But there are individual farms that do not hesitate to do anything to increase income by increasing productivity. There is a special laboratory in the capital, the work of which is aimed at limiting the import of dangerous products into the city’s markets and stopping any attempts of this kind.

Watermelons have a unique composition, rich in vitamins and microelements, with juicy red or yellow pulp, with or without seeds. The choice is quite rich, because more than 2000 varieties of sweet berries have already been bred, and selection work continue. Despite the fact that watermelon is traditionally considered a heat-loving crop, there are species that are grown even in Siberia. As a rule, watermelon is selected according to its degree of sweetness, juiciness, ripeness, aroma and taste. You can not make a mistake with your choice and buy the most delicious watermelon, you can only study the features of the most the best varieties and varieties.

Astrakhan

One of the popular and widespread, since Soviet times, variety of melons. Its main advantages are unpretentiousness in cultivation, the possibility of long-term storage, and resistance to long-distance transportation. But this is not the most important thing, because watermelon has a sweet, rich taste, is rich in vitamins, perfectly quenches thirst, and satisfies the needs of even experienced gourmets.

One of the popular and widespread, since Soviet times, variety of melon fruits

The ripe berry reaches 7–10 kg, has a round or slightly oval shape, with light yellow, slightly blurry stripes on a dark, green background. The brighter the contrast between such stripes, the richer and watermelon tastes better. The pulp is dark red, juicy, with a strong, persistent aroma, black seeds and a very thick skin. In terms of ripening time, Astrakhan watermelons are classified as mid-season watermelons. The original variety is grown only in the southern regions, with a warm climate, but many hybrids of this species have been bred, suitable for harvesting in mid-latitudes. You can buy real Astrakhan watermelon only during the ripening season, i.e. in August-September, but not earlier.

Ogonyok

This Soviet early ripening variety ideal for cultivation not only in mid-latitudes, but also in northern regions. It is unpretentious to growing conditions, resistant to diseases, and has high yields. In addition, Ogonyok is very sweet, with delicate granular pulp, almost without seeds. The ripe berry is small in size and rarely weighs more than 2 kg, which does not detract from its advantages.

This Soviet early ripening variety is ideal for growing not only in mid-latitudes, but also in northern regions

Watermelon is distinguished not only by its miniature shape, but also by its interesting, very dark (almost black), monochromatic peel color. With its appearance, Ogonyok resembles neat, perfectly round, small balls, it fully ripens in just 80–85 days, and you can buy it already in mid-August. A significant disadvantage of this variety is that it is not suitable for long-term storage and transportation.

Crimson Sweet

Another interesting one early variety, intended specifically for industrial cultivation and sale. It is very productive, but rather heat-loving, which is why it is cultivated only in the southern regions, or in special greenhouses. The variety is widely known and popular due to its unique honey taste, high sugar content, bright aroma and persistent aftertaste.

Another interesting early variety, intended specifically for industrial cultivation and sale.

Watermelon fully ripens in 70 days, and can grow up to 12 kg, it is resistant to diseases, is well stored and transported. The peel is light green, striped, and the flesh is a rich raspberry hue, with a strong smell of honey. It happens that abundant watering during cultivation makes the berries watery, but this happens infrequently, and they appear on sale in August-September.

Sugar Baby

One of the most unpretentious, cold-resistant, not prone to wateriness and disease, watermelon variety. It is not without reason that he has earned recognition from farmers and amateur gardeners. Despite its very small size (maximum 5 kg, but more often 1.5–2 kg), it is distinguished by a sweet, sugary taste, delicate bright pulp and dense, dark skin.

One of the most unpretentious, cold-resistant, not prone to wateriness and disease, watermelon variety.

The variety is early, so you can buy it at the end of July, and in taste and aroma it surpasses most known hybrids.

Lunar

An original, memorable hybrid, with bright lemon-colored pulp, obtained by crossing Astrakhan and wild watermelon. The peel, size, shape and smell of the Lunar variety are no different from the Astrakhan variety. The main difference is the color and tenderness of the pulp, the unforgettable taste, which mixes notes of lemon, honey, and vanilla.

An original, memorable hybrid, with bright lemon-colored pulp

It has a very high amount of sugar, almost no seeds and a loose peel, which makes transportation and sale difficult. The mature fruit weighs only 3 kg and matures in 70–80 days. It can be seen on sale as early as August, and it grows not only in the south, but also in temperate latitudes.

Chill

One of the most famous late varieties of berries, characterized by its huge dimensions (up to 25 kg). The variety was bred in Volgograd, which explains its resistance to cold and unpretentiousness. The berries are elongated oval in shape, weighing no more than 4.5 kg, with thick striped skin and bright, sugary and juicy pulp.

The variety was bred in Volgograd, which explains its resistance to cold and unpretentiousness

The main advantages of the variety are considered to be long-term storage, the possibility of transportation, unique taste, and productivity, but you can only buy it in September, due to its late ripening period.

Volzhanin

A mid-late variety of watermelon, one of the sweetest and most delicious, which is grown in the southern regions of Russia and Moldova. The peel of the berry is thick, light with dark spiky stripes, and the pulp is grainy, high in sugar content (about 8%) and juicy.

A mid-late variety of watermelon, one of the sweetest and most delicious

Watermelon reaches a weight of 14–16 kg, and up to 30 tons of ripe berries are collected from 1 hectare. Due to its high taste and commercial properties, this variety is often found on sale in August or early September, along with Astrakhan watermelons. Unfortunately, Volzhanin is poorly stored, but it compensates for the shortcoming with its amazing taste.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the rarest, most delicious and incredibly expensive variety of Japanese watermelon, Densuke, which has a black rind and burgundy pulp. The cost of a kilogram of such berries is more than $6,000, which does not stop real gourmets. Everyone can choose a watermelon to suit their taste on their own by trying and comparing several different varieties. The varieties described above will help you navigate the difficult choice.

The approach of autumn is associated with generous gifts and the ripening of one of the most beloved delicacies - striped watermelons. It is at this time of year that they take pride of place on the Slavic table.

From a botanical point of view, watermelon is the largest false berry on earth. The berry is because it grows on the ground, and the false one is due to the presence of a thick, inedible peel.

This is a unique gift of nature, which organically combines taste with benefits and contains a number of substances necessary for the body in an accessible form.

Historical reference

Astrakhan watermelon is a truly legendary product with a rich history. Cultivation - the mass cultivation of watermelon for consumption - began with the ancient Egyptians four thousand years ago. It came to Russia much later, in the 12th century, along with Persian traders. The new plant has taken root in the fertile southern lands, and over time, watermelons in Astrakhan became a common crop.

The first written mentions of watermelons from Astrakhan date back to 1560. A couple of hundred years later, Peter the Great tasted this berry and ordered the impressive fruits to be delivered to the royal table. The Emperor was so imbued with love for the sweet delicacy from the south of Russia that a commemorative coin was issued in honor of the watermelon and fireworks were fired. And the city of Astrakhan has since been associated with watermelons.

As a separate variety of watermelon, Astrakhansky was finally bred only in the 70s of the last century, when breeders from the All-Russian Research Institute of Irrigated Vegetable and Melon Growing worked on it and made a description of the variety.

Appearance and internal contents

If you want to taste a truly delicious fruit, then most people strive to buy Astrakhan watermelon. It is believed that only it has the “right” appearance and the “right” impressive size, rich aroma, attractive color of granular pulp and a really sweet taste. To distinguish it from others, you need to know characteristic features Astrakhan watermelon varieties:

• fruit shape: oblong or round;
• bark: smooth, very strong, elastic, thick - up to 2 centimeters;
• pattern: spiky dark green stripes on a light green background;
• pulp: bright red, crispy, coarse-grained, with high content sugars;
• fruit weight at the stage of full ripening: 8-10 kilograms or more.

In addition to the listed parameters of the Astrakhan watermelon, the following qualities should be added to the description:

• mid-early ripening period: 70-85 days;
• tolerance to diseases and pests;
• high yield: reaches 120 t/ha;
• excellent transportability;
• excellent keeping quality: can be stored for up to 2 months without loss of quality;
• marketability: the fruits are aligned and look great on the counter.

Where and how to grow

It’s easier to find the right Astrakhan watermelons in places with optimal conditions for their comfortable growth - in the south - it’s well-established there industrial cultivation these sweet giants. To obtain large and sweet fruits, you must adhere to certain rules:

1. In the fall, choose a site for melon planting: sunny, heated, with protection from cold winds.
2. Dig the soil deeply, remove weeds, add humus.
3. Perennial herbs and cereals, potatoes, onions and annual legumes are welcomed as predecessors. Inadmissible are nightshade and pumpkin crops.
4. The soil should be deeply cultivated, fertile, light sandy and sandy loam, with an acidity in the range of 6.5-7.0.
5. Prepare holes for plants about 8 cm deep, according to a 100 x 100 cm pattern. Add fertilizer to them.
6. Pre-soak the seeds in a solution of microelements or potassium permanganate.
7. Sow the seeds in the holes to a depth of about 4 cm, when the soil warms up to 14°C.
8. The optimal daily air temperature for plant growth and fruit formation is considered to be 25...30°C, and the average daily air temperature is about 19°C.
9. Plant care: timely weeding, loosening, mulching the soil, fertilizing, watering.
10. During the period of active growth, feed twice: first with nitrogen, and during fruit set - with potassium-phosphorus fertilizers.
11. Watering: abundant during the period of cane growth, moderate - with the beginning of fruiting.
12. Prevention against pests (spider mites, aphids, wireworms): spraying with an infusion of ash and garlic or insecticides (no later than a month before the start of harvesting mature fruits).
13. If necessary, control diseases: use Bordeaux mixture and copper-based fungicides.
14. Take timely measures to repel rodents and birds to prevent spoilage of the filling fruits.

Southerners in the middle zone

Not only in the south, but also in the non-black earth zone, they have learned to achieve decent harvests of this heat-loving crop. Even in the middle zone, Astrakhan watermelon will delight you with excellent large-fruited fruit if additional conditions are met.

Even before the revolution, the cultivation of southern melons was established in greenhouses at the royal court, manorial estates and monasteries in central Russia.

In order for growing watermelon in a temperate climate to be successful, timely sowing of seeds for seedlings in separate containers is necessary. Young plants are planted a month after germination, after the end of the threat of return frosts, in greenhouses or under film covers. The transplant is carried out carefully, transferring the plant into a hole with a lump of earth, while trying not to injure the delicate roots. Care for watermelon plants under shelters in the same way as in open ground, not forgetting to ventilate greenhouses in hot weather. For the formation of large fruits and their ripening, it is recommended to pinch the shoot after the formation of 2 fruits. And then, if there are enough warm sunny days, you will be able to enjoy large and juicy berries from your garden!

Collect correctly and preserve as much as possible

Fruit harvesting begins when they reach technical ripeness, which is determined both by timing and appearance. The following signs indicate maturity:

• a small light spot on the bark at the point of contact with the soil;
• a well-dried whip tail;
• ringing sound when tapping the bark;
• characteristic juicy crackling sound when cutting;
• absence of whitish immature seeds inside.

Harvested mature thick-skinned Astrakhan watermelon can be stored without loss of quality for about a month in the dark at room temperature and low humidity. Moreover, it is better to hang it in a net or string bag. For longer storage, cool conditions in a ventilated cellar or basement are required, where it will lie or hang for 2 or even more months. Great way preservation - in a “coat” of paraffin, clay or a similar substance.

How and with what it is eaten

The harvested crop must be able to not only be properly preserved, but also used correctly. This applies to both fresh and processed fruits in one way or another. Cut watermelon is stored in the refrigerator for no more than a day. And to enjoy it throughout the year, you can store it in optimal conditions or expose in various ways processing:

• Whole watermelon is pickled, salted, fermented;
• freeze the pulp or squeezed juice;
• cut into thin slices or pieces and dry - you get chips and candied fruits;
• add gelatin to the juice and form into candies;
• make jam or jam from the pieces with juice.

For many years now, Astrakhan watermelon has not lost its popularity. It has truly become the most recognizable trademark, a unique symbol of taste and a sign of quality in the watermelon world. Purchased at the market, in a store, or grown with love in your own garden, this generous gift of nature will delight us with its virtues and give us endless pleasure!