Moon & Stars (Van Doren) Watermelon
Moon & Stars (Van Doren) Watermelon
The 15" dark green oval fruits are covered with pea-sized, bright yellow "stars" and usually one larger "moon". Foliage is also spotted. The fruits have sweet pink flesh and brown seeds. This watermelon created a sensation in 1981 when Merle Van Doren of Macon, Missouri shared this legendary variety with Seed Savers Exchange.
- Packet 25 Seeds
- 90-95 days
- Organic
- Oval fruits grow to 15 inches long
- Fruits are covered with pea-sized bright yellow “stars” and usually one larger “moon”
- Spotted foliage
- Sweet pink flesh with brown seeds
This variety works for:
- Fresh eating
SSE's current stock of the Moon and Stars (Van Doren) watermelon tested at a 69% germination rate. This is below the federal germination rate standard (70%) and has been over-packed by 25% of the stated quantity.
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8' apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils.
- Direct Seed: 1/2" Deep
- Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds
- Thin: To 3-4 Plants
- Light: Full Sun
Nothing compares to the experience of eating fresh watermelon slices on a warm summer day. Watermelon flesh can also be used for cold soups with citrus or in salads with arugula and feta cheese.
To make a refreshing watermelon granita, or frozen ice, blend 4 cups of watermelon flesh that has been cubed and seeded with 1/4 cup of sugar and juice from half of a lime. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for 1-3 hours. You can then scrape the ice with a fork and serve with mint or basil.
Some people pickle the rinds of watermelons with cider vinegar and pickling spices or with a combination of sugar, cinnamon, and ginger. These pickles are a great addition to appetizer trays at parties.