2010

Watermelon F1 Hybrid ‘Shiny Boy’
AAS Vegetable Award Winner

In a taste test against comparisons, 'Shiny Boy' won! Judges favored the sweet tropical flavor and crisp texture. A red fleshed melon with dark seeds; this globe-shaped melon weighed about 20 pounds, some larger. The hybrid plants are vigorous; vines can grow up to 12 feet. 'Shiny Boy' can be grown vertically so that a large yard for a vegetable garden is not needed. Judges noted a high yield and generally healthy plants, tolerant of severe weather. It is an art form to determine when melons are ripe for harvest but plan to check plants in about 75 days from transplanting for mature fruit. 'Shiny Boy' is earlier than other varieties. This AAS Winner can be grown successfully in any geographic region with warm summer growing conditions. It was bred by Known-You Seed Company.

How to Grow
In northern areas, sow seed 4 weeks prior to last frost date. Sow seed directly into peat pots filled with soilless mix that has been well-watered and allowed to drain. Cover with media and maintain 75°F. Wrap in plastic to maintain uniform moisture. Germination will occur in 7 to 14 days. Keep warm, transplant after soil and air temperatures warm or protect from cool night temperatures. In areas with long growing seasons, seed may be sown directly into prepared garden soil.

AAS® Winner Data

Genus species: Citrullus lanatus
Common name: Watermelon
Fruit size: Globe shaped fruit 20 pounds or larger
Color: Dark green rind, thick wide stripes and deep red flesh
Plant type: Spreading vine
Width: 13 foot spread
Garden location: Full fun
Garden spacing: 8 to 10 feet
Unique qualities: Earlier than comparisons, high yield, delicious tasting
Disease tolerances: Vigorous plant tolerates general diseases and insects
Length of time from sowing seed to harvest: 90 days from seed, 75 days from transplant
Closest comparisons on market: 'Sweet Favorite,' 'Starlight,' and 'Delta'