Stone Mountain Watermelon
Item Details
(aka Dixie Belle) Southern favorite introduced in 1924 by Hastings Seed Company of Atlanta, Georgia. One of the most popular watermelons during the 1930s and 1940s but now scarce. Round dark green fruits with sweet pink flesh average 30 pounds. Thick rind resists splitting, good choice for shipping or storage. Rind is also excellent for pickling.
- 80-95 days
- Organic
- This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States.
- Round fruits grow to 30 pounds
- Sweet, pink flesh
- Thick, dark green rind prevents splitting and is good for pickling
This variety works for:
- Fresh eating
- Pickling
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.
Growing Instructions
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