Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) 'Viking F1' – Early, Sweet Watermelon of Top Quality

Citrullus lanatus 'Viking F1' is a premium F1 hybrid watermelon known for its early ripening, high yield, and juicy, sweet flesh. This variety is ideal for both home gardeners and small-scale commercial growers looking for a reliable and tasty watermelon with uniform fruit and exceptional quality. 'Viking F1' combines vigorous growth, early harvest, and intense sweetness, making it a favorite in both home gardens and greenhouses.

Features of 'Viking F1'

'Viking F1' produces medium to large watermelons weighing 4–6 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 aromatically sweet, with a fine, almost fiber-free texture. This makes the melon ideal for slicing, dicing, or using in desserts. The seeds are small and sparse, making it easy and enjoyable for the whole family to eat.

Growth habit and cultivation

'Viking F1' is a vigorous, early-maturing hybrid that produces reliable fruit, even in temperate climates or shorter summer seasons. The plant grows vigorously and produces multiple, uniform fruits per plant.

Optimal growing conditions:

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

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

• Water: 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 increases soil temperature and helps retain moisture, which promotes sugar buildup in the fruit flesh. Supplemental potassium feeding during fruit set encourages larger and sweeter fruit.

Benefits of 'Viking F1'

This watermelon offers several advantages for gardeners and hobby growers:

• Early Maturing
  Quick harvest, ideal for shorter summers or cooler climates.

• 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 stress factors such as fluctuating temperatures and drought.

• 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, juicy flesh of 'Viking 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 texture of the flesh ensures that the melon remains intact when cut and processed, making it also suitable for presentation and catering.

Conclusion

Citrullus lanatus 'Viking F1' is an early-maturing, productive, and flavorful watermelon with deep-red, juicy flesh and a reliable yield. Its combination of early maturity, intense sweetness, and vigorous growth make this variety ideal for gardeners seeking a high-quality, easy-to-grow watermelon. For those seeking a visually appealing and exceptionally flavorful melon, 'Viking F1' is an excellent choice.