Watermelon Seeds,
Lemon Drop

4.258 ReviewsSKU: #WM217
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Min. 25 seeds

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Description

(Citrullus lanatus). An outstanding and super rare all-golden mini melon. Baker Creek had been searching for an all-yellow watermelon for many years. These incredibly small and early-producing melons are just what we’ve been pining after—a rich lemon-yellow color from skin to flesh! Like striking gold, this glorious gilded watermelon was the stuff of dreams and legend. The excitement was palpable as these Asian type, pocket-sized melons began to ripen on vine at the trials. We were thrilled with the vigorous growing habit and productivity; each vine blossomed and provided perfect single-serving fruit of 1 to 2 pounds, with unparalleled, candy-sweet flavor and a crispy texture. The flesh of this thin-skinned little snacking melon is edible all the way down to the rind. It is a perfect home garden or local market melon, as the thin skin is not well suited to long-distance shipping. The vines produce tons of the melons. The vines throw a small percentage of green-skinned fruit.

Growing Tips: Lemon Drop watermelon grows best in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Its compact vines make it well suited for smaller gardens and raised beds. Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture and mulch to conserve water and suppress weeds. Limit fruit per plant to encourage size and sweetness in each melon.

Plant Details

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

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before your last frost date or direct sow outdoors once the soil temperature reaches at least 70°F. Transplant only after all 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 mound, 1 inch deep, and thin to the strongest seedling after germination. Space mounds 2–3 feet apart. Choose a location with good airflow, warm soil, and full sun. Amend with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer before planting to support healthy growth.

How to Grow

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy during flowering and fruit development. Water at the base of the plants to prevent fungal issues. Fertilize when vines begin to run and again when fruit sets. Provide trellising if vertical space-saving is needed, and rotate crops yearly for disease prevention.

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 do Lemon Drop watermelons get?

Lemon Drop melons typically weigh 1-2 pounds, making them perfect for individual servings or small households. Their small size and eye-catching rind color make them ideal for fresh market sales.

Can I grow Lemon Drop watermelon in containers?

Yes, the compact growth habit and smaller fruit size make Lemon Drop an excellent choice for container growing. Use a large pot with well-draining soil and provide a trellis for support if needed.

Is Lemon Drop watermelon a hybrid or heirloom?

Lemon Drop is open-pollinated rather than a hybrid, so you can save seed from it. Note that the vines still throw a small percentage of green-skinned fruit, so save seed only from the best all-yellow melons, and isolate from other watermelons, which cross readily by insect pollination.

Browse our full range of watermelon seeds.

Customer reviews

4.2 / 5 58 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Candy sweet: Crisp, juicy flesh with a hint of citrus; many call it their best.

  • Prolific vines: Fast growers that set many personal-sized melons per plant.

  • Heads up: Splits easily, so water evenly; some ripen green-skinned.

  • Trellis friendly: Vigorous vines climb well and shrug off pests and mildew.

  • Tricky to time: Hard to tell when ripe; the tendril often never browns.