A whole Stone Mountain Watermelon surrounded by rocks, melon balls and watermelon juice.
A man holding a cut Stone Mountain Watermelon with a slice at the Baker Creek trial farm in California.
A whole Stone Mountain Watermelon surrounded by rocks, melon balls and watermelon juice.
A man holding a cut Stone Mountain Watermelon with a slice at the Baker Creek trial farm in California.

Watermelon Seeds,
Stone Mountain

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Description

(Citrullus lanatus). A legendary commercial melon from the early 20th century with old-fashioned, sugary sweet watermelon flavor. Stone Mountain was introduced in 1923 by Hastings Seed Company of Atlanta, Georgia, and went on to become one of the top commercial melons of the 1930s and 1940s; today it is almost extinct due to mass production and hybrids. Nice-sized fruits weigh about 30 pounds, and have thick rinds that make them excel as shippers and storage melons. The red flesh is sweet, juicy, and wonderful, bringing back memories of how watermelons used to taste. A classic Southern melon produced from seed provided by seed collector Rodger Winn.

Growing Tips: Stone Mountain watermelon grows best in full sun with fertile, sandy or loamy soil. Enrich soil with compost before planting and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Its thick rind helps prevent splitting and improves shelf life. Allow vines room to sprawl and provide consistent watering throughout fruit development for optimal sweetness.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Citrullus lanatus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
85–95
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
36–48 in.
Ideal Temperature
70 to 95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before your last expected frost date, or direct sow outdoors when soil temperatures reach 70°F. Transplant only after the danger of frost has passed. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow 2–3 seeds per hill at 1 inch deep, spacing hills 3–4 feet apart in rows 5–6 feet apart. Thin to the strongest seedling per hill once established. Use well-drained, warm soil and rotate crops annually to reduce the risk of soilborne disease.

How to Grow

Water deeply 1–2 times weekly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilize with compost or balanced organic fertilizer when vines begin to run and again at flowering. As fruit ripens, reduce watering slightly to concentrate sugars and improve flavor.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow fruit to ripen fully and cure on the vine before harvesting.
  • Scoop seeds from the flesh and rinse in a strainer to remove pulp.
  • Spread seeds on a screen or paper towel in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight for 7-10 days.
  • Stir daily to ensure even drying.
  • Once completely dry, store in an labeled, airtight container in a cool, dark place.

FAQ

How big does the Stone Mountain watermelon get?

Fruits typically range from 25 to 35 pounds, with dense, juicy flesh and a tough rind. This makes them ideal for slicing, storing, and transporting without splitting.

Is Stone Mountain watermelon good for long-term storage?

Yes, this variety was developed with storage in mind. Its thick rind resists cracking, and properly harvested melons store well for several weeks in a cool, shaded environment.

Can Stone Mountain watermelon grow in shorter seasons?

It performs best in warm, long-season climates. However, northern growers can succeed by starting seeds indoors and using season extension methods like row covers or black plastic mulch.

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