Trio of Royal Golden watermelon, one with a sliced removed, on a white background.
Royal Golden Watermelon on a white background.
Royal Golden Watermelon freshly sliced in the field showing the yellow foliage on the vine.
Trio of Royal Golden watermelon, one with a sliced removed, on a white background.
Royal Golden Watermelon on a white background.
Royal Golden Watermelon freshly sliced in the field showing the yellow foliage on the vine.

Watermelon Seeds,
Royal Golden

4.120 ReviewsSKU: #WM160Min. seed count: 15
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Description

(Citrullus lanatus). A family favorite! The most beautiful watermelon we carry! The rind of this heirloom turns brilliant golden-yellow when ripe! The distinctive color makes it a snap to know when to harvest, and it is so beautiful in your garden. The tasty pinkish-red flesh is super sweet, crisp, and refreshing. This variety is much larger than 'Golden Midget,' with fruit weighing 8 to 25 lbs. We are so happy to offer seed for this great old melon that used to be offered by Willhite Seed of Poolville, Texas, from the 1930s until they discontinued it from their catalog in the 1970s and it almost disappeared. It was developed from the "Pumpkin Rind" variety, a now extinct, early American watermelon. The Royal Goldens still do remind us of big glowing pumpkins and their vines are even mostly yellow. One of the best-tasting watermelons ever!

Growing Tips: Royal Golden watermelon thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun. The fruit’s rind transitions to golden yellow when ripe, making it easy to know when to harvest. Mulch to conserve moisture and keep fruit off the soil. Space generously to allow long vines to spread, and water consistently for the best fruit quality.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Citrullus lanatus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
80–90
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
36–48 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last expected frost or direct sow when soil temperatures reach 70°F. Wait until all risk of frost has passed before transplanting seedlings outdoors. 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 2–3 seeds per hill, spaced 3–4 feet apart, at a depth of 1 inch. Once seedlings emerge, thin to the strongest one. Choose a location with full sun, good airflow, and rich, amended soil. Avoid planting where cucurbits were grown the year before to reduce disease risk.

How to Grow

Water deeply once or twice per week, depending on rainfall. Reduce watering slightly as fruits begin to mature to improve flavor concentration. Fertilize with compost or an organic blend when vines begin to run. Use straw or melon cradles to support fruit and keep them clean and dry.

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

Does the Royal Golden watermelon start out yellow?

No, Royal Golden begins green and turns a rich golden yellow as it ripens, making it visually distinctive and helpful for gauging harvest time without guesswork.

How large do Royal Golden watermelons get?

Fruits weigh 8 to 25 pounds, much larger than 'Golden Midget.' With ideal conditions, they produce large melons perfect for slicing and sharing, with a crisp texture and balanced sweetness.

Can I grow Royal Golden watermelon in northern climates?

Yes, this variety performs well in most zones. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors, and use black plastic mulch to warm the soil.

Browse our full range of watermelon seeds.

Customer reviews

4.1 / 5 20 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Very sweet flesh: Sweetest melon in the patch when left to turn deep orange.

  • Golden ripeness cue: Rind turns gold when ripe; wait for deep orange, not pale yellow.

  • Big melons: Fruit of 18 to 30 pounds is common on vigorous vines.

  • Yellow vines are normal: Leaves and vines yellow as fruit ripens; that is normal.

  • Heads up: Slow and fussy to get started, with lots of large seeds inside.

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