Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) 'Rosario F1' – Early, Sweet Watermelon with Deep Red Flesh

Citrullus lanatus 'Rosario F1' is a high-quality F1 hybrid watermelon known for its early ripening, excellent yield, and juicy, sweet flesh. This variety is ideal for both home gardeners and small-scale commercial growers seeking a reliable, productive watermelon with intense flavor. 'Rosario F1' combines modern hybrid traits with excellent cultivation performance and uniform fruit quality.

Features of 'Rosario F1'

'Rosario F1' produces medium to large watermelons, typically weighing between 4 and 6 kg. The rind is dark green with lighter stripes, firm and protective, making the fruit easy to store and transport. The flesh is deep red, juicy, and intensely sweet, with an excellent Brix level, making this melon among the best in terms of flavor and aroma.

The flesh has a firm, almost fiber-free texture, making it ideal for slices, cubes, and summer desserts. The seeds are relatively small and present in limited quantities, making them easy to eat.

Growth habit and cultivation

'Rosario F1' is a vigorous, early-maturing hybrid that reliably produces fruit, even in temperate climates or shorter summers. The plant grows vigorously and produces multiple fruits per plant.

Optimal growing conditions:

• Location: full sun, at least 6–8 hours per day

• Soil: airy, humus-rich and well-drained

• Water: regularly, especially during fruiting; water directly at the roots

• Temperature: Optimal growth at 24–32 °C

• Planting distance: 100–120 cm depending on available space

Using mulch or black sheeting allows the soil to warm up faster and retain moisture better. This promotes early growth and increases sugar buildup in the fruit flesh. Supplemental potassium feeding during fruit set encourages larger, juicier, and sweeter fruits.

Benefits of 'Rosario F1'

'Rosario F1' is a watermelon popular with both hobbyists and professional growers because of its many advantages:

• Early maturing
  Quick harvest, ideal for shorter summers or cooler regions.

• Deep red, juicy flesh
  Intensely sweet and aromatic, with a fine texture and little fibre.

• High yield
  Multiple uniform fruits per plant, reliable and consistent.

• Strong plant growth.
  Good resistance to changing temperatures and stress factors.

• Few seeds
  Easy and fun to eat, ideal for children and adults.

• Good shelf life
  Tough skin protects the fruits, making transport and storage easy.

Culinary applications

The deep red flesh of 'Rosario F1' is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

• Fresh food as a summer snack

• Fruit salads and bowls for color and taste

• Smoothies and juices for a natural, sweet taste

• Desserts, such as sorbets, ice cream or fruit bowls

• Savory dishes, for example watermelon with mint, feta or basil

Thanks to its firm texture, the flesh remains intact when cut and processed, making the melon also suitable for presentation and catering purposes.

Conclusion

Citrullus lanatus 'Rosario F1' is an early-maturing, productive, and flavorful watermelon with deep-red, juicy flesh and a reliable harvest. The combination of early maturity, sweetness, and vigorous growth makes this hybrid ideal for gardeners seeking a high-quality, easy-to-grow watermelon. For those seeking intense flavor, consistent yields, and visually appealing melons, 'Rosario F1' is an excellent choice.