Watermelon spray?

Question

I've planted a watermelon seed, not expecting much from it, but soon it spread out and a large watermelon is on it. I've noticed it believe it or not. When is the best time to pick it anyway? There's another one, a small one, round with a black tip. I hope nothings wrong with it.
My biggest question is the leaves. They're being eaten by bugs and are turning brown. Spraying them with insectiside won't hurt watermelon plants will it? thanks

Answer 1

Sraying the leaves won't hurt the watermelon, but it's easier to just pick off the damaged leaves and continue to do so. If you plan to sprinkle an insect killer around the plant, be sure you get one for vegetables. Pick the watermelon when it's a good size. Anytime now I would guess, consdering the time of year it is (depending on where you live). Call a garden center for further information.

Answer 2

This will depend on what kind of pesticide you use. Some pesticides are applied during the non production stage and should not be used when the food is at or near harvest. (mostly with agricultural) For others, it is not a problem.

The bugs on your plant are most likely a type of aphid. They love the gourd type plants. Your local home and garden store will carry pre-mixed pesticicde in a spray bottle for home garden use. Make sure you get the one for aphids. A few squirts of this and all should be well.

Answer 3

Pick it when the underside turns from white to cream or slightly yellow. Hard to say what to spray with without knowing what kind of bugs. I would use insecticidal soap spray or make my own. If you make it use soap like Ivory not detergent like dish soap. I use a bout a 1 inch cube dissolved in boiling water. Dliuted 2 to 4 tablespoons of soap solution in a quart spray bottle filled with water.