Organic ‘Halbert Honey’ Watermelon

Organic ‘Halbert Honey’ watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) from the seed company Gaia, a heritage Texan variety with a sweet aroma and crisp pink flesh

The ‘Halbert Honey’ watermelon, developed by H.A. Halbert of Texas and introduced in 1902 by W. Atlee Burpee, was so highly regarded that even thirty years later it was described as “one of the tastiest melons on the market.” Its elongated , dark green fruits have a thin, delicate rind , encasing pink flesh that is juicy, crisp, and deliciously sweet . A heritage variety prized for its remarkable sweetness, it thrives in warm climates but also performs well in sunny northern summers.

An old-fashioned, elegant and deeply flavorful melon, ideal for gardeners who love aromatic watermelons with a crisp texture.

Companion plants : Radish, Corn, Garlic, Nasturtium, Pumpkin, Squash
Enemy plants : Potato

Spread/Habit : Vigorous creeping vine
Plant height : 20 to 30 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Variety from 1902, elongated fruit, thin skin, sweet and crisp pink flesh, intensely aromatic

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Juicy, crisp, sweet and fragrant flesh
Cold tolerance : Not hardy

Farming method

To improve germination, soak the seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water and lightly scarify them . Sow indoors two weeks before transplanting, or directly outdoors when the soil temperature exceeds 21C (70F) . Sow the seeds 1.25 cm ( inch) deep. Plant in full sun (level 3) with moderate watering (level 2). Space plants 60-90 cm (24-35 inches) apart, with 150 cm (60 inches) between rows. Germination takes 3-10 days at temperatures between 21-35C (70-95F) (optimum 27-30C/81-86F).

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest when the tendril near the fruit is dry and brown , a classic sign of ripeness in watermelons. Store at 7C and 85% humidity for up to 3 weeks .

Usage ideas

In fresh slices , where its sweet crunch excels
Diced in summer salads
In drinks, granitas or fresh juices
On colorful fruit platters
In homemade ice pops

The ‘Halbert Honey’ watermelon is a heritage gem: sweet, juicy, and deeply flavorful, it’s the heir to a century of horticultural tradition. A must for sunny gardens.