Congo Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) – AAS Winner Red Fruit Melon Seeds

The Congo Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is an award-winning heirloom melon prized for its ultra-sweet red flesh, huge fruit size, and strong disease tolerance. As an AAS (All-America Selections) Winner, it delivers excellent garden performance, making it a favorite among home growers and melon enthusiasts.

Its vigorous vines and high yields make it a top choice for warm, sunny regions.

Key Features

• AAS-winning heirloom watermelon variety

• Extremely sweet red flesh with crisp texture

• Produces extra-large, oblong melons

• Vigorous vines with strong growth

• Excellent warm-weather performer

• Non-GMO, high-quality seeds

Specifications

• Common Name: Congo Watermelon

• Botanical Name: Citrullus lanatus

• Seed Type: Non-GMO

• Fruit Type: Large red-fleshed melon

• Maturity: 90–100 days

• Fruit Weight: 20–40 lbs (can exceed 50 lbs in ideal conditions)

• Fruit Shape: Oblong

• USDA Zones: 3–11 (grown as warm-season annual)

• Sun Exposure: Full sun

• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy or loamy soil

• Water Needs: Moderate and consistent

• Spacing: 3–4 ft between plants; 6–8 ft between rows

• Vine Type: Long trailing vines

Planting Guide

1. Sowing Time: After frost danger has passed and soil reaches 70°F (21°C).

2. Sowing Depth: ½–1 inch deep.

3. Germination: 7–14 days at warm temperatures.

4. Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and fruiting.

5. Sunlight: Requires full sunlight for strong growth and sweetness.

6. Soil Prep: Loosen soil deeply for vine spread.

7. Transplanting: Start indoors 3–4 weeks early if necessary—avoid root disturbance.

8. Care Tips:

   • Mulch to reduce weeds and retain moisture.

   • Allow vines space to spread for maximum fruit size.