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Watermelon Charleston Gray

Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.

Watermelon Charleston Gray

Melon

Citrullus lanatus 'Charleston Gray'

  • Full sun
  • Zones 5–11
  • 85 days to maturity
  • Vegetables
  • 72" spacing
  • pH 6–7
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  • Overview

    A legendary heirloom watermelon from 1954 that produces massive, elongated fruits perfect for feeding crowds at summer gatherings. This variety is prized for its exceptional disease resistance, long storage life, and sweet red flesh that stays crisp even in hot weather. Charleston Gray's distinctive gray-green color and reliable 25+ pound fruits make it a favorite for serious watermelon growers.

  • Planting

    Direct sow when soil reaches 70°F. Plant 4-6 seeds per hill, thin to 2-3 strongest seedlings. Requires long growing season.

  • Growing

    Sun: full. Soil pH: 6–7. Space plants 72" apart. Germination: 4-12.

  • Pests & diseases

    Common pests: Cucumber beetles, squash vine borers, aphids. Common diseases: Powdery mildew, bacterial fruit blotch, gummy stem blight.