Early Girl (Otome) watermelon with slices on a cutting board.
Early Girl (Otome) Watermelon cut on a white background.
Early Girl (Otome) Watermelon cut on a dark blue background.
Early Girl (Otome) watermelon with slices on a cutting board.
Early Girl (Otome) Watermelon cut on a white background.
Early Girl (Otome) Watermelon cut on a dark blue background.

Watermelon Seeds,
Early Girl (Otome)

4.311 ReviewsSKU: #WM216Min. seed count: 15
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Description

(Citrullus lanatus). One of the most delicious micro melons we have ever tasted! These super early-maturing mini melons from Japan are perfect for growing in the ground, or in pots and up a trellis! Originally selected for storing in tiny refrigerators and other small spaces, this pretty little melon averages 1- to 4-pound fruit and has an attractive light green skin and blushed salmon-rose-colored flesh. The plants are impressively productive, and the flesh is super sweet and delicious. It is an ideal choice for the gardener with limited space, for growing on balconies, or for those looking for a gourmet mini melon. In the late 1930s, Mr. Woo Jang-Choon, a Korean-Japanese agricultural scientist, combined the Yamato 3 and Kaho watermelons at the Agricultural Konosu Experimental Station in Japan’s Saitama Prefecture to create the Early Girl (Otome).

Growing Tips: Early Girl Otome performs well in containers, raised beds, and small garden plots due to its short vines and early maturity. Choose a sunny site with rich, well-drained soil. Apply mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds, and use row covers early to protect seedlings from pests and cool nights.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Citrullus lanatus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
60–70
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
36–48 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before your last frost or direct sow once soil temperatures reach 70°F. Transplant or sow outdoors only after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. 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

Plant seeds 1 inch deep in hills or rows. Sow 2–3 seeds per hill, spaced 2–3 feet apart, and thin to the healthiest seedling once true leaves appear. Use fertile, sandy loam soil and amend with compost before planting. Ensure the area receives full sunlight and is free of standing water.

How to Grow

Water consistently to establish strong vines, then reduce frequency slightly as fruit matures to enhance sweetness. Fertilize with a balanced, organic product when vines begin to sprawl and again at flowering. Provide support or trellising if needed, especially when space is limited. Monitor for pests and rotate crops yearly for disease prevention.

How to Save Seeds

  • Choose fully ripe or overripe fruits from healthy, true-to-type plants.
  • 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

Can I grow Early Girl Otome watermelon in containers?

Yes, this variety is excellent for containers due to its compact vine habit and small fruit size. Use a large container with rich soil and place in full sun for best results.

How early does Early Girl Otome mature compared to other watermelons?

Early Girl Otome typically matures in just 60–70 days, making it one of the earliest watermelon varieties available and a great choice for short-season or northern growers.

What size fruit does Early Girl Otome produce?

This watermelon yields petite fruits averaging 1 to 4 pounds, perfect for single servings or small households. Despite their size, they deliver super sweet, delicious flesh in an attractive blushed salmon-rose.

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