Not only are these fruits perfect for the heat, but melons grown from seeds in your own garden often taste far better than the ones bought at the market. However, like all good things, growing melons does come with its challenges.

Here's how to solve the most common problems faced when growing melons from seed.

1. Slow Germination

Melon seeds - especially watermelons - need warm soil and full sunlight to germinate. These are heat-loving plants and may take longer to sprout if the soil is too cold or damp. Sow seeds only when temperatures are above 24°C and ensure they receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If starting indoors, use a heating mat to speed up germination.

2. Wilted Vines

If your vines are collapsing or leaves are turning yellow and wilting, you may be facing a moisture issue - or worse, a fungal infection. Fusarium and Verticillium wilt spread through soil-borne spores and are hard to control once they take hold. Use well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Always choose disease-resistant seeds and rotate crops each year to reduce the risk of infection.

3. No Fruiting

Melons that grow leafy and vigorous but fail to produce fruit may be struggling with one of three issues: not enough sunlight, cool temperatures, or too much nitrogen. Ensure your plants get full sun and warm growing conditions. Avoid overfeeding with nitrogen-rich fertilisers, which promote leaves over fruit. Use balanced fertilisers or compost instead.

4. Deformed Fruits

Oddly shaped or underdeveloped fruits usually point to poor pollination. Watermelons produce both male and female flowers, and they depend on insects like bees to transfer pollen. Encourage pollinators by planting flowers like marigold, cosmos, or basil nearby. In very dry or rainy conditions, you may need to hand-pollinate using a small paintbrush.

5. Small Fruits

When too many vines grow too closely together, the plants compete for sunlight, nutrients, and water - resulting in smaller melons. Give each mound enough room to grow, spacing them at least 6–7 feet apart. Thin out seedlings to keep only two or three of the healthiest plants per mound. Good air circulation also helps prevent disease and boosts growth.

6. Cracked Fruits

Watermelons can split open if they receive too much water just before harvest. This is because the fruit, which is already made up of over 90% water, cannot expand any further. Reduce watering once the fruits begin to ripen to avoid cracking and preserve sweetness. Too much water at the end of the season can also make your fruit taste watery instead of sweet.

7. Rotten Fruits

A rotting base or soft spots can be a sign of blossom end rot, often caused by inconsistent watering and calcium deficiency. To prevent this, water regularly and evenly - especially during flowering and fruiting. Improve calcium in the soil by adding crushed eggshells or bone meal at planting. To avoid ground rot, mulch with straw under the growing fruits to keep them off moist soil and discourage pests.

Melons may be a bit tricky to grow, but with the right approach, you can enjoy fresh, sweet fruits all summer long. Stay consistent with watering, encourage pollinators, and give your plants the warmth and space they need. Growing your own melons from seed is deeply rewarding - and the taste is always worth the effort!