Sweet Siberian Watermelon

A Russian variety first offered by Peter Henderson & Co. in 1898. Obtained from the Seed Savers Exchange member Glenn Drowns who introduced it into the Seed Savers Exchange in 1987. Green oblong watermelons weigh about 10 pounds. Flesh is very sweet, juicy, and apricot-colored.

• 80-85 days
• Organic
• This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States.
• Oblong fruits grow to 10 pounds
• Apricot-orange flesh
• Very sweet and juicy

This variety works for:

• Fresh eating

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.

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