August Ambrosia Watermelon
Citrullus lanatus
Seeds per pack ~20
Germination: 91% Sep 2024 Packed for 2025
DAYS TO MATURITY: 80 days
History & Origins:
This August Ambrosia watermelon was cultivated in a partnership between our friends at Fruition Seeds and Cornell University. The August Ambrosia Watermelon is an heirloom variety cherished for its sweet, fragrant flavor that lives up to its name, “ambrosia”—the food of the gods. While not as widely known as classic heirlooms like Moon & Stars, this variety traces back to small farm seed savers in the American South who selected it for late-summer ripening, consistent sweetness, and good field performance. Its preservation continues thanks to heirloom seed networks and gardeners dedicated to maintaining its unique qualities.
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
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.
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.
Culinary Uses:
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
August Ambrosia thrives in USDA Zones 4–10, requiring full sun and warm, well-drained soil. Direct sow seeds after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach at least 70°F. Sow seeds ½–1 inch deep, spacing them 2–3 feet apart in rows or hills spaced 5–6 feet apart to allow for vigorous vine growth. Regular watering during early establishment and fruit set is essential, but reduce water as fruits mature to concentrate sweetness. A side-dressing of compost or organic fertilizer midway through the season supports healthy development. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting Guidance
Fruits typically mature in 85–95 days from sowing. Indicators of ripeness include the drying of the tendril nearest the fruit, a creamy yellow spot on the underside where the melon rests on the soil, and a deep, resonant sound when tapped. Harvest carefully with pruning shears, leaving a short stem attached. Watermelons do not ripen off the vine, so accurate timing is important. Once harvested, they can be stored in a cool, dry place for about 1–2 weeks, though refrigeration extends their shelf life once cut.
