Watermelon Seeds - Vining - Charleston Grey

Name: Watermelon Seeds - Vining - Charleston Grey
Brand: Alliance of Native Seedkeepers
SKU: WM12
Price: 2.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Alliance of Native Seedkeepers | SKU: WM12

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Introducing the Charleston Grey Watermelon, a classic heirloom variety renowned for its impressive size and sweet, juicy flesh. This watermelon cultivar grows vigorously, reaching a sprawling vine length that can cover ample garden space. Typically maturing in 85 to 100 days, the Charleston Grey produces elongated fruits that can weigh between 20 to 40 pounds, making it a standout choice for those seeking a bountiful harvest.

The fruit's rind is a distinctive pale green with subtle darker stripes, providing an eye-catching contrast to its vibrant red interior. Known for its firm, crisp texture and rich, sugary flavor, the Charleston Grey is a favorite for summertime refreshment. Its thick rind not only offers excellent protection during growth but also makes it ideal for transport and storage, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment.

In the kitchen, the Charleston Grey Watermelon is versatile and delightful. Whether sliced for a refreshing snack, blended into smoothies, or used as a base for creative salads, its sweet taste and juicy consistency are sure to enhance any dish. Cultivate this beloved variety in your garden and savor the classic taste of summer with every bite.

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Common Pests & Problems — 'Charleston Grey' (Citrullus lanatus)Insects & MitesCucumber Beetles (leaf damage, bacterial wilt transmission)Controls: Use floating row covers to protect young plants. Apply kaolin clay or neem oil as deterrents. Introduce beneficial nematodes to target larvae in the soil. Rotate crops to disrupt beetle life cycles.Spider Mites (stippling, webbing on leaves)Controls: Increase humidity around plants and use a strong water spray to dislodge mites. Apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Introduce predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) for biological control.DiseasesFusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum)Symptoms: Yellowing and wilting of leaves, often starting with older foliage. Vascular browning in stems.Controls: Use resistant varieties and practice crop rotation. Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Remove and destroy infected plants.Anthracnose (Colletotrichum lagenarium)Symptoms: Dark, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and fruit. Can lead to fruit rot.Controls: Apply fungicides like chlorothalonil or copper-based products at the first sign of disease. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.Physiological & Environmental IssuesBlossom End RotSymptoms: Water-soaked spots on the blossom end of fruit, leading to sunken, blackened areas.Controls: Maintain consistent soil moisture and ensure adequate calcium levels. Mulch to retain soil moisture and avoid drought stress.SunscaldSymptoms: White, papery patches on fruit exposed to direct sunlight.Controls: Provide shade during peak sun hours and ensure healthy foliage cover. Avoid excessive pruning that exposes fruit.Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist- Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests and diseases.- Implement crop rotation and sanitation practices to prevent disease buildup.- Use mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.- Encourage beneficial insects with companion planting.- Ensure proper spacing for air circulation to reduce disease risk.- Test soil and amend as necessary to maintain nutrient balance.

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Charleston Grey, the storied watermelon variety, traces its roots back to the fertile fields of the American South, where it was first introduced in the mid-20th century. This watermelon, with its distinctive elongated shape and grey-green rind, was developed by the United States Department of Agriculture in Charleston, South Carolina, hence its evocative name. The moniker \"Grey\" refers to the unique color of its skin, which stands out among the more common dark green watermelons, and \"Charleston\" pays homage to the city where it was born.For decades, Charleston Grey has been cherished not only for its sweet, juicy red flesh but also for its resilience and adaptability. Farmers in the Southern United States prized this variety for its ability to withstand the region's hot, humid summers and its resistance to diseases that plagued other watermelon types. Its thick rind allowed it to be transported over long distances without damage, making it a staple in markets across the country during the peak of summer.Culturally, the Charleston Grey watermelon became synonymous with Southern hospitality and the leisurely pace of life in the region. It was a centerpiece at family gatherings, picnics, and community events, where slices were shared among friends and neighbors, often accompanied by stories and laughter. In some areas, watermelon seed spitting contests became a popular pastime, with the Charleston Grey's large, black seeds providing the perfect ammunition for friendly competition.Though newer hybrid varieties have emerged, offering different flavors and colors, the Charleston Grey remains a beloved heirloom. Its seeds are treasured by gardeners and farmers who appreciate its historical significance and the nostalgia it evokes. Growing Charleston Grey watermelons today is a nod to the agricultural heritage of the American South, a way to connect with the past and preserve a piece of horticultural history.Botanically, the Charleston Grey belongs to the species Citrullus lanatus, a lineage that dates back to ancient Africa, where wild watermelons were first domesticated. Over centuries, these fruits traveled with traders and explorers, evolving into the diverse array of watermelons we know today. The Charleston Grey's development marked a significant chapter in this journey, showcasing the ingenuity of American agricultural scientists and the enduring appeal of a well-bred variety.In the modern era, Charleston Grey continues to captivate both seasoned horticulturists and casual gardeners. Its legacy is celebrated in seed catalogs and garden plots, a testament to its enduring charm and the timeless delight of a perfectly ripe watermelon on a hot summer's day. To plant Charleston Grey seeds is to partake in a tradition that spans generations, honoring the farmers and scientists who crafted its legacy and ensuring its place in the gardens of the future.

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Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.

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We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!

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Watermelon Seeds - Vining - Charleston Grey

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Shipped from U.S.A.

Triple tested

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