Walchli Farms hopes for watermelon harvest to begin Aug. 1

Published 11:00 am Monday, August 1, 2022

HERMISTON — Walchli Farms of Hermiston hopes to start watermelon harvest by Monday, Aug. 1.

“We have seeded and seedless melons,” Patrick Walchli said. “Both varieties ripen at the same time.”

Walchli Farms has grown Hermiston watermelons for generations, its Facebook page read. Besides its famous melons, Walchli grows a variety of in-season produce, such as potatoes, hay and wheat. Asparagus is available from mid-April to June.

“We are waiting for those melons to be just perfect before we start harvesting,” the site said. “Our team has been busy getting things ready. Our shop will open once harvest begins. Thank you for your patience and please stay tuned. We will post right here once we get rolling.”

Watermelons had a slow growing season, but are coming on rapidly, Mike Walchli said.

“The melons are sure going to be sweet, thanks to the heat,” he said. “Our workers are seasoned and know how to take care of themselves during heat waves. They stay hydrated. We start work at 5 o’clock and knock off at 3 to 4.”