Soil Preparation
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Choose well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8
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Enrich with compost or organic matter
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Ensure good sunlight exposure (6–8 hours daily)
Planting
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Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost
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Space 3–4 feet apart in rows, 6 feet between rows
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Plant seeds 1 inch deep
Watering
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Water deeply and consistently
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Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
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Reduce watering as fruits mature to increase sweetness
Growth & Harvest
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Germination: 7–10 days
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Time to maturity: 80–90 days
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Harvest when the underside turns creamy yellow and sounds hollow when tapped
Tips for Best Yield
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Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
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Use organic fertilizer during the growing season
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Hand-pollinate if bee activity is low
