Watermelon

I wasn't planning to plant watermelon this year. The last time I tried to grow watermelons it was pretty much a waste of time. Well, the chickens enjoyed them. I was actually thinking I'd plant cantaloupes but then several watermelon plants sprouted without being planted. I guess they came from last year's plant.

The vines were spreading out and blossoming and doing well. Then something happened and the vines began to wither. At first I thought it was not enough water. Then I noticed white bugs that I'm guessing are watermelon pests since they looked just like white watermelon seeds. I have since then googled a little and think they are called squash bugs. Pesky squash bugs.

I've watched and waited and finally decided to cut one off and cut it open. It was edible, I guess, but not a very good specimen. We ate some of it and gave the rind to the chickens. Then today I went ahead and just picked all of them and pulled up the vines. I'm just going to cut my losses and plant something else in that space.

I think one will be edible but the rest are either too small or have rotten places. The only good thing is that the chickens will love them.