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Charleston Gray Watermelon

Charleston Gray

Citrullus lanatus — Open-Pollinated Watermelon (USDA 1954)
Type
Open-Pollinated
Cross Risk
Moderate
Difficulty
Medium
Seed Viability
4–5 years
Family
Cucurbitaceae

About This Variety

Charleston Gray is a classic American watermelon released by the USDA in 1954. It produces long, cylindrical fruits with a distinctive light greenish-gray rind and crisp, sweet red flesh. Matures in 85–90 days. Known for excellent disease resistance (particularly to fusarium wilt and anthracnose) and outstanding shipping quality. A staple of southern watermelon culture and still one of the most widely grown OP watermelons in the country.

How to Save Seeds

  1. Let the fruit ripen fully on the vine — slightly overripe is fine. Check for a dried tendril nearest the fruit and a creamy yellow ground spot.
  2. Cut the watermelon and enjoy. Collect the black, mature seeds. White or pale seeds are immature — discard them.
  3. Rinse seeds in a colander under running water, cleaning off all flesh and pulp.
  4. Spread seeds in a single layer on a plate or screen. Dry indoors for 1–2 weeks, stirring occasionally.
  5. Store fully dried seeds in a labeled envelope or jar in a cool, dry location.

Cross-Pollination

Charleston Gray will cross with other watermelon varieties (Citrullus lanatus) but will NOT cross with cantaloupes, cucumbers, or squash.

Will Cross WithWon't Cross With
Leelanau Sweetglo watermelon Cantaloupes / muskmelons
Tendersweet watermelon Cucumbers
Any other Citrullus lanatus Squash, pumpkins, luffa
Note: With multiple watermelon varieties in the garden, insect cross-pollination is expected. The saved seed will still produce watermelons, but traits may be mixed. Hand-pollinate for pure seed.
Tip: Charleston Gray's disease resistance makes it a great variety to maintain. Select seed from your healthiest, most disease-free plants to preserve this valuable trait over generations.