WATERMELON Seeds, Black Diamond

Black Diamond (Citrullus lanatus) is a heirloom watermelon producing very large, round fruit with a deep blue-green rind and sweet, crisp, deep-red flesh. A classic Southern field melon known for its impressive size.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Citrullus lanatus 'Black Diamond'
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated watermelon
• Days to maturity: about 90 days
• Fruit size: commonly 30 to 40 pounds
• Sun: Full sun
• Spacing: hills 6 feet apart
• Planting depth: 1 inch

Best for

• Fresh summer slices
• Family gatherings and picnics
• Juices and agua fresca
• Fruit salads
• Gardeners who want big melons

How to grow

Direct sow 1 inch deep in warm soil after all danger of frost, in hills with plenty of room for the long vines. Grow in full sun in rich, well-drained soil and water deeply and consistently, easing off as the fruit nears ripeness to concentrate sweetness. These melons need a long, warm season. Harvest when the underside ground spot turns creamy yellow and the nearest tendril dries.

Flavor profile

Very sweet and crisp with classic, refreshing watermelon flavor.

About 99Heirlooms

99Heirlooms specializes in non-GMO, open-pollinated heirloom seeds chosen for flavor and reliability, so you can grow proven varieties and save seed season after season.