Single Sugar Baby Bush Watermelon on a white background.
Watermelon Seeds, Sugar Baby Bush
A carved Sugar Baby Bush Watermelon with slices and melon balls on a dark blue background.
Single Sugar Baby Bush Watermelon on a white background.
Watermelon Seeds, Sugar Baby Bush
A carved Sugar Baby Bush Watermelon with slices and melon balls on a dark blue background.

Watermelon Seeds,
Sugar Baby Bush

3.713 ReviewsSKU: #WM198Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Citrullus lanatus). An ideal plant for gardeners with limited space, as the vines of Sugar Baby Bush only reach around 3 feet long. This is an early producer; the juicy and sweet little 6- to 12-pound fruit should be ready to harvest in 75 days. Flesh is a deep scarlet; skin is a dark green with no striping.

Growing Tips: Sugar Baby Bush watermelon thrives in warm weather and full sun, requiring well-drained soil enriched with compost. Its short vines make it ideal for container gardening or tight spaces. Water deeply and regularly, especially during flowering and fruit set. Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, and reduce watering as fruit ripens for optimal sweetness.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Citrullus lanatus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
75–85
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 at least 70°F. Only transplant outdoors 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

Plant 2–3 seeds per hill at 1 inch deep. Space hills or plants 2–3 feet apart. Thin to the strongest seedling once established. Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil. Add compost or organic fertilizer before planting to support healthy early growth.

How to Grow

Water 1–2 times per week, keeping soil evenly moist but not soggy. Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer when plants begin to vine and again at first fruit set. Fruits can rest directly on mulch or be elevated with melon cradles to avoid soil contact. Watch for signs of ripening such as a creamy belly spot and dry tendril near the stem.

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

Can I grow Sugar Baby Bush watermelon in a container?

Yes, it’s an excellent choice for container gardening due to its compact, bush-like growth habit. Use a large pot (at least 15 gallons) with rich, well-drained soil and full sun exposure.

How much space does Sugar Baby Bush need in the garden?

Unlike standard vining types, Sugar Baby Bush requires only 3–4 feet of space per plant, making it ideal for raised beds, patio containers, or tight garden rows.

How many melons will one Sugar Baby Bush plant produce?

Each plant typically produces 2 to 3 melons under good growing conditions. Adequate sun, consistent moisture, and proper feeding will help maximize yield and fruit quality.

Browse our full range of watermelon seeds.

Customer reviews

3.7 / 5 13 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Can be prolific: Happy vines set six to ten; some set only a melon or two.

  • Personal size: Softball-size melons, right for one or two people.

  • Sweet and juicy: Sweet, juicy flesh, though seeds run plentiful for some.

  • Heads up: Not a true bush; vines often run six feet or more.

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