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Tendersweet Orange Watermelon

Tendersweet (Orange)

Citrullus lanatus — Open-Pollinated Heirloom Watermelon
Type
OP Heirloom
Cross Risk
Moderate
Difficulty
Medium
Seed Viability
4–5 years
Family
Cucurbitaceae

About This Variety

Tendersweet is an open-pollinated heirloom watermelon prized for its unusual orange flesh. It produces oblong fruits with a dark green rind and exceptionally sweet, deep orange interior. Matures in 85–95 days. The orange color makes it a standout at the table and a conversation-starter at potlucks. A reliable performer that has been passed down through gardeners for generations.

How to Save Seeds

  1. Let the fruit get fully ripe on the vine — even slightly overripe is ideal for seed maturity. Look for a dried tendril and a yellow ground spot.
  2. Cut open and enjoy the melon. Collect the black, mature seeds as you eat. Discard any white or pale seeds — those are immature.
  3. Rinse seeds in a colander under running water, removing all bits of flesh and pulp.
  4. Spread seeds in a single layer on a plate or screen. Dry indoors for 1–2 weeks, turning occasionally.
  5. Store fully dried seeds in a labeled envelope or jar in a cool, dry place.

Cross-Pollination

Tendersweet 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
Charleston Gray watermelon Cucumbers
Any other Citrullus lanatus Squash, pumpkins, luffa
Note: With multiple watermelon varieties in the garden, cross-pollination is likely. Saved seed may produce hybrids. For pure seed, hand-pollinate and bag the flowers, or grow only one variety.
Tip: The orange flesh color is what makes this variety special. When selecting fruit for seed saving, pick the ones with the deepest, most vivid orange flesh to maintain the trait.