Moon & Stars (Van Doren) Watermelon

The 15" dark green oval fruits are covered with pea-sized, bright yellow "stars" and usually one larger "moon". Foliage is also spotted. The fruits have sweet pink flesh and brown seeds. This watermelon created a sensation in 1981 when Merle Van Doren of Macon, Missouri shared this legendary variety with Seed Savers Exchange.

• 90-95 days
• Organic
• Oval fruits grow to 15 inches long
• Fruits are covered with pea-sized bright yellow “stars” and usually one larger “moon”
• Spotted foliage
• Sweet pink flesh with brown seeds

This variety works for:

• Fresh eating

SSE's current stock of the Moon and Stars (Van Doren) watermelon tested at a 69% germination rate. This is below the federal germination rate standard (70%) and has been over-packed by 25% of the stated quantity.

Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8' apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils.

• Direct Seed: 1/2" Deep
• Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds
• Thin: To 3-4 Plants
• Light: Full Sun

Nothing compares to the experience of eating fresh watermelon slices on a warm summer day. Watermelon flesh can also be used for cold soups with citrus or in salads with arugula and feta cheese.

To make a refreshing watermelon granita, or frozen ice, blend 4 cups of watermelon flesh that has been cubed and seeded with 1/4 cup of sugar and juice from half of a lime. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for 1-3 hours. You can then scrape the ice with a fork and serve with mint or basil.

Some people pickle the rinds of watermelons with cider vinegar and pickling spices or with a combination of sugar, cinnamon, and ginger. These pickles are a great addition to appetizer trays at parties.