August Ambrosia Watermelon
Citrullus lanatus
Seeds per pack ~20
Germination: 91% Sep 2024 Packed for 2025
DAYS TO MATURITY: 80 days
PLANT DESCRIPTION: (Citrullus lanatus) The August Ambrosia Watermelon plant, is known for its sweet and succulent fruits, and large, sprawling vines with lobed leaves that provide ample shade for the developing fruits. The watermelons themselves are oblong to round in shape, exhibiting a vibrant green rind with light and dark green stripes. As the name suggests, the August Ambrosia Watermelon is celebrated for its exceptional sweetness and juiciness, making it a delightful summer treat. If you dream of homegrown watermelon and garden in short seasons, grow August Ambrosia Watermelon. Their sweet fruits ripen abundantly throughout August even in short, cool seasons.
The flesh is crisp, pale pink to red, and contains a high water content, contributing to its refreshing taste. The August Ambrosia Watermelon plant thrives in warm climates with full sun exposure, well-draining soil, and regular watering. As the fruits mature, they emit a sweet aroma, signaling their readiness for harvest. With careful cultivation and proper care, the August Ambrosia Watermelon plant yields delicious fruits that are eagerly anticipated during the late summer months.
HISTORY: The August Ambrosia watermelon was cultivated in a partnership between our friends at Fruition Seeds and Cornell University. Indigenous to Africa, watermelons, including varieties like the August Ambrosia, have a history that predates colonial influences. Watermelons were first cultivated in Africa before spreading north into Mediterranean countries and, later, to other parts of Europe. The transatlantic slave trade was the main vehicle by which the watermelon made its way to the Americas. Before it became a racist stereotype in the Jim Crow era, watermelon once symbolized black self-sufficiency. After the Civil War, newly freed African Americans grew, ate and sold watermelon—the fruit became a symbol of freedom
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: Watermelon is predominantly composed of water, aiding in maintaining proper hydration levels in the body. Beyond its thirst-quenching properties, it is a rich source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes skin health. It also contains vitamins A and B6, contributing to vision and metabolic processes. Watermelon's vibrant red hue signifies the presence of the antioxidant lycopene, linked to potential health benefits, including heart health and reducing oxidative stress. The fruit is naturally low in calories, making it a guilt-free option for those watching their calorie intake. Additionally, watermelon provides essential minerals such as potassium, crucial for maintaining electrolyte balance and supporting proper heart function.
FOOD PREP: The most popular way to eat watermelon is to slice the watermelon into wedges or cubes, providing a convenient and mess-free way to enjoy this hydrating fruit. For a twist, consider making watermelon skewers by threading the cubes onto sticks and alternating with other fruits like mint or feta cheese for a delightful appetizer. Turning watermelon into a chilled soup or gazpacho offers a unique and cooling option on warm days. Additionally, blending watermelon into smoothies or juices provides a refreshing beverage bursting with flavor. Experiment with savory combinations by adding watermelon to salads with feta, mint, and balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory contrast. Frozen watermelon cubes make for a healthy and tasty snack while incorporating the fruit into sorbets, popsicles, or granitas adds a playful touch to desserts. The seeds of a watermelon are also considered a culinary delight, with a slightly nutty flavor.
GROWING TIPS: Annual. Plant watermelon into 12-inch-tall hills of soil that are spaced at least 6 feet apart. Sow 6–8 seeds per hill, later thinning to 3–4 plants per hill. Sow watermelon seeds ½-inch deep. Water seeds into the hills after planting.
