A green thumb, years of experience, and a passion for gardening recently paid off for Swainsboro resident Mary Alice Reese who harvested a Jubilee watermelon weighing an impressive 38.1 pounds and measuring 23 inches.
Reese and her husband, Rev. Charlie Reese Sr., have called Swainsboro home for the past 31 years. The daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. G.W. Mincey of Twin City, Reese said her love for gardening began at an early age, learning the craft from her parents.
The Jubilee watermelon plants were purchased from Yard Master and planted in May. With attentive care, patience and favorable growing conditions, one of the plants produced a giant watermelon.
While the oversized melon has certainly attracted attention, Reese says the greatest reward isn’t the size of the harvest but the peace she finds while tending her garden. “Growing flowers and planting vegetables is a passion and my therapy while being a caregiver to my spouse,” Reese said. “I also have to give thanks to God for the rain that helped grow this plant, only He can do it.”
For Reese, gardening is more than a hobby - it’s a source of comfort, purpose and joy. This year’s remarkable harvest is a reflection of the lessons she learned from her parents and the dedication she continues to pour into her garden, driving that patience and hard work can produce something fully extraordinary.
