Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) 'Tigrimini F1' – Early, Compact Mini Watermelon

Citrullus lanatus 'Tigrimini F1' is a high-quality F1 hybrid mini watermelon distinguished by its compact growth, early harvest, and sweet, juicy flesh. This variety is ideal for hobby gardeners and smallholders looking for a manageable watermelon with striking colors and reliable yields. 'Tigrimini F1' combines vigorous growth with uniform, flavorful fruits, making it a favorite for vegetable gardens, greenhouses, and potted plants.

Features of 'Tigrimini F1'

'Tigrimini F1' produces small, round to slightly oval watermelons weighing 1.5–3 kg, ideal for individual portions or small families. The rind is dark green with distinctive light green stripes, giving the fruit an attractive and distinctive appearance.

The flesh is deep red, juicy, and exceptionally sweet, with a fine, almost fiber-free texture. Thanks to its compact size and limited seed content, this watermelon is easy and enjoyable to eat, even for children.

Growth habit and cultivation

'Tigrimini F1' is a compact and vigorous variety, suitable for gardens with limited space, greenhouses, or pots. It ripens early, allowing for faster harvesting, even in areas with shorter summers.

Optimal growing conditions:

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

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

• Water: regularly and evenly, especially during fruit development; water directly at the roots

• Temperature: Optimal growth at 24–32 °C

• Planting distance: 80–100 cm for compact growth

Using mulch or black sheeting increases soil temperature and helps retain moisture, which promotes sugar buildup in the fruit flesh. Additional nutrients, especially potassium during fruit set, contribute to larger, juicier, and sweeter fruits.

Benefits of 'Tigrimini F1'

This mini watermelon offers several advantages for gardeners and hobby growers:

• Compact growth
  Perfect for small gardens, greenhouses or pots.

• Early maturing and productive
  Quick harvest and reliable yield, even in shorter summers.

• Deep red, juicy flesh.
  Exceptionally sweet with a fine texture and low fiber.

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

• Tough skin
  Protects the fruit and makes transport and storage easy.

• Versatile in use
  Ideal for slices, cubes, smoothies, juices and desserts.

Culinary applications

The juicy flesh of 'Tigrimini F1' is versatile in the kitchen:

• Fresh food as a summer snack

• Fruit salads and bowls for color and taste

• Smoothies and juices for natural sweetness

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

• Savory dishes, for example watermelon-feta or watermelon-mint salad

The firm structure of the flesh ensures that the melon remains intact when cut and processed, which is ideal for presentation and catering.

Conclusion

Citrullus lanatus 'Tigrimini F1' is an early-ripening, compact, and flavorful mini watermelon with deep-red, juicy flesh and a reliable yield. Its combination of compact growth, intense sweetness, and ease of use make this variety ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners. For those looking for a manageable, attractive, and delicious watermelon, 'Tigrimini F1' is an excellent choice.