How I Growing Jackfruit with Watermelon Tree
Growing fruit trees is always an adventure for me, but combining two different fruits on the same tree is even more exciting. One of my favorite experiments in my garden is growing jackfruit with watermelon. It may sound unusual, but with the right techniques, patience, and creativity, it is possible to enjoy the benefits of both fruits from the same space. Let me share how I started, what I learned, and the steps you can follow if you want to try growing jackfruit with watermelon in your own garden.
Understanding the Concept
First, it’s important to clarify: jackfruit grows on a tree while watermelon is a vine that normally spreads on the ground. So how can we “grow them together”? The idea is not to graft them — since they are botanically too different — but to create a symbiotic growing system where the jackfruit tree provides support and shade, and the watermelon vine climbs or grows around the base, maximizing space and creating a mini-ecosystem.
Choosing the Right Location
The first step is selecting a good spot. Jackfruit trees need a warm, humid climate with plenty of sun. They grow big, so they need space to spread their branches and roots. I chose an area in my backyard with well-drained soil and lots of sunlight. Watermelon also loves full sun and rich soil, so this spot was perfect for both.
Preparing the Soil
Good soil preparation is key for success. I dug a large hole for my jackfruit sapling and mixed in compost, aged manure, and organic matter to ensure rich, fertile soil. Around the base, I created a raised bed for the watermelon seeds. This helps with drainage and keeps the vines from sitting in wet soil, which can cause rot.
Planting the Jackfruit
I planted my jackfruit sapling first. It’s important to plant it at the right depth — the root ball should be level with the ground. After planting, I watered it thoroughly and mulched around the base to keep moisture in and weeds out. Jackfruit trees grow fast if they get enough nutrients and water.
Adding the Watermelon
After my jackfruit tree was established for about two months, I prepared to plant the watermelon. I planted the watermelon seeds about two feet away from the tree trunk, giving enough space for the vines to spread but still close enough to benefit from the shade and structure of the tree.
Training the Vines
Here’s where the experiment gets interesting. Watermelon vines usually sprawl on the ground, but I decided to gently train some of the vines to climb a low trellis leaning against the jackfruit tree’s trunk. This keeps the fruit off the wet ground and saves space. I used soft garden ties to guide the vines without damaging them.
Watering and Feeding
Both plants need plenty of water, especially in hot weather. I set up a drip irrigation system to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Overwatering can cause root rot for both jackfruit and watermelon, so good drainage is vital. I also feed both plants with organic fertilizer every month. Jackfruit loves extra potassium and phosphorus, while watermelon thrives on balanced nutrients for healthy vines and sweet fruit.
Controlling Pests and Diseases
When growing different plants together, you need to watch out for pests. I check my plants every few days for signs of bugs or fungal diseases. I use natural solutions like neem oil and garlic spray to keep pests away without harming beneficial insects. Mulching helps prevent weeds and keeps the soil temperature stable.
Harvesting
Harvesting watermelon is the fun part! Since watermelon grows faster than jackfruit, you can enjoy the first fruits within 70 to 90 days. Look for signs like a dry tendril near the fruit stem and a dull, hollow sound when tapped. The jackfruit, on the other hand, takes longer — about three to four years to produce fruit if grown from a sapling. But the reward is worth the wait, as ripe jackfruit can weigh 20 to 50 kilograms!
Benefits of Growing Together
Growing jackfruit with watermelon has many benefits. The watermelon vines cover the ground, acting like a living mulch that suppresses weeds and keeps the soil moist. The jackfruit tree provides shade for the vines in extreme heat, preventing sunburn on the fruit. The combination also makes my garden look lush and full, attracting bees and butterflies that help pollinate other plants.
My Tips for Success
From my experience, here are some final tips:
- Choose disease-resistant watermelon varieties for fewer problems.
- Prune the jackfruit tree regularly to allow enough sunlight for the vines.
- Use organic mulch like straw or coconut husk to retain moisture.
- Rotate the watermelon planting spot each season to avoid soil diseases.
- Be patient — the jackfruit tree will grow large, so plan ahead for its size.
Conclusion
Combining jackfruit with watermelon is a fun, productive way to make the most of your garden space. It may not be traditional grafting, but this method of companion planting shows how creative gardening can be. With care and dedication, you can enjoy sweet watermelon every season while waiting for the giant, delicious jackfruit to ripen. Try it yourself and see how rewarding it is to grow different fruits in harmony!
