It’s time to plant some watermelons. The annual Fourth Grade Watermelon Contest has begun in Lincoln County. 

Members of the Lincoln County Master Gardeners have begun distributing seeds for Congo melons to every fourth-grade student in Lincoln County and Brookhaven public schools, and Brookhaven Academy. Each child will receive a small zippered bag containing plenty of seeds so they can grow their own melons. Homeschooled fourth-graders can pick up packets at the Lincoln County Extension Office, located upstairs in the Lincoln County/Brookhaven Government Complex on South First Street. 

Distributed in order to get students involved in growing something themselves, the Congo melons are easy to grow either in the ground or in containers. The sweet melons can grow to sizes larger than 40 pounds.

The seeds will sprout five to 10 days after they are planted, and will take about 90 days to mature. Included with the seeds are instructions for watering and exposure to the sun.

In August, students will bring their heaviest melon to the Master Gardener booth at the August Exchange Club Fair. Cash prizes will be given to the growers of the three heaviest melons. 

For more information, contact Master Gardener Steve Edge at 601-835-0111 or the MSU Extension Center Office at 601-835-3460.