How to Grow Cantaloupe: 9 Tips for Growing Cantaloupe
- Choose the best location Cantaloupe prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost prior to planting.
- Choose a cantaloupe type suited to your needs Ambrosia – sweet variety; resistant to powdery mildew. Mini Sugar Cube – disease resistant; small fruits; only 75 days to harvest. ...
- Plant cantaloupe at the correct time Cantaloupe prefers warm weather, so don’t plant it before temperatures have warmed in the spring. Cantaloupe does best when direct sown. ...
- Reduce chances for pests and disease Rotate where you plant cantaloupe and members of the cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae), such as other melons, squash, or pumpkins. ...
- Give cantaloupes plenty of room to grow Thin seedlings and keep only the strongest seedling in each group. ...
- Care for cantaloupe correctly throughout the growing season Mulch cantaloupe plants to help retain moisture, regulate temperature, control weeds, and keep fruit clean. ...
- Learn how to grow cantaloupe that is sweet and full of flavor Don’t overwater while fruit is growing. Too much water (or rain) produces bland-tasting fruit. ...
- Harvest cantaloupe at the right time Cantaloupe will continue to soften once picked, but it won’t get any sweeter. ...
- Don’t let cantaloupe harvests go to waste
How to grow cantaloupe as big as your head?
Reduce chances for pests and disease
- Rotate where you plant cantaloupe and members of the cucumber family ( Cucurbitaceae ), such as other melons, squash, or pumpkins.
- Once fruits have formed, raise them up off the ground with melon cradles or pots; this increases air circulation and helps with rot and insects.
- Grow cantaloupe vertically; they love to climb. ...
How to prepare Fresh cantaloupe seeds for planting?
Part 1 Part 1 of 3: Prepping the Ground and Planting
- Select a hardy variety appropriate for your climate. Cantaloupes, also known as muskmelons, are available in dozens of cultivated and heirloom varieties, and grow best in hot weather, at ...
- Select an appropriate location for cantaloupe. The most important part of planting and growing cantaloupe is warm soil and enough space.
- Prepare the soil. ...
How long does it take for Cantaloupe to grow?
On average, it takes about 80 - 90 days from planting for a cantaloupe seed to develop into a fully mature plant. Typically, cantaloupe plants reach about 3 - 4 feet (or 1 metre) in height. Though this can fluctuate depending on the variety. Cantaloupe need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day in order to thrive.
How to germinate cantaloupe seeds?
Instructions
- Choose the right kind of melon: Be sure to read up on the variety of cantaloupe you choose. ...
- Don't set your plants out too early. ...
- Plant cantaloupe next to strong scents. ...
- Give them enough water. ...
- Put down a layer of mulch. ...
- Don't harvest too early. ...
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Is cantaloupe easy to grow?
Cantaloupes (aka rockmelons, sweet melons, and spanspeks) are an easy growing specialty melon that can be direct sown after all danger of frost, or started indoors 3-4 weeks before setting out. Growing cantaloupe plants occupy a fair bit of space, so be sure to leave enough room for the vines to spread out.
How do you grow cantaloupe in your backyard?
0:432:16Jack's Backyard: Growing Cantaloupe - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRun my drip tube down covered with a black poly cut a whole Nepali plant the plant walk away turn onMoreRun my drip tube down covered with a black poly cut a whole Nepali plant the plant walk away turn on the water walk away the ripe ones are a little bit obvious.
Is it better to grow cantaloupe on the ground or trellis?
Vining plants that sprawl on the ground are also vulnerable to insect pests, fruit rot, and other diseases. Growing melons vertically, that is up a trellis, allows for better airflow that keeps foliage dry. In addition, fruit is held above the wet ground and far from crawling bugs.
What is the best month to plant cantaloupe?
springCantaloupe prefers warm weather, so don't plant it before temperatures have warmed in the spring. Cantaloupe does best when direct sown. Sow seeds outside about 2 weeks after the last frost date when soil temperatures are about 65℉.
Why is cantaloupe not good for you?
If there is too much potassium to process at once, you can develop a condition known as hyperkalemia. Having too much potassium in your blood increases your risk of a heart attack. Eating too much cantaloupe may also be hard on your intestines and cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and other digestive problems.
How long do cantaloupes take to grow?
about 80 to 90 daysHow long does it have to grow? Cantaloupe matures in about 80 to 90 days. Melons are normally ready to harvest when they start turning yellow on the bottom and the stem starts turning brown.
How many melons does a cantaloupe plant produce?
Each plant can produce anywhere from four to eight delicious melons.
What can you not plant with cantaloupe?
Some of the best companion plants for cantaloupes include marigolds, nasturtiums, radishes, and lettuce. Avoid planting cucumbers, watermelons or squash near cantaloupes, as they are susceptible to the same pests!
Do cantaloupes need full sun?
Cantaloupe Planting Basics Plant cantaloupe seeds in full sun in well-drained soil. They'll need about 85 days to mature, but don't rush things.
Will cantaloupe climb a trellis?
The good news is that with a pinch of creativity and a dash of careful setup, anyone can train cantaloupe to grow vertically on a trellis of nearly any type. So don't shy away from growing these delicious melons (Cucumis melo var. reticulatus), which you can learn more about in our growing guide.
How often do you water a cantaloupe?
Cantaloupes need plenty of water, but not enough to make a soggy garden. Give your crops one to two inches of water per week, watering the soil directly to avoid wetting the leaves and promoting powdery mildew. Once fruit begins to grow, reduce your watering, as dry weather is best for sweeter melons.
How much space does a cantaloupe plant need?
Honeydew and cantaloupe spacing is more modest. They require less space than full-sized watermelons, since the fruit produced is smaller. These melons require about 12 inches between plants, with a minimum of 4 feet between the rows. to allow for growth.
How many melons does a cantaloupe plant produce?
Each plant can produce anywhere from four to eight delicious melons.
Do cantaloupes need a trellis?
Also, growing a cantaloupe on a trellis will keep the fruit clean and resistant to chewing pests, as well as keeping the foliage dry, thus less susceptible to disease.
Do cantaloupes need full sun?
Cantaloupe Planting Basics Plant cantaloupe seeds in full sun in well-drained soil. They'll need about 85 days to mature, but don't rush things.
Can you grow cantaloupe from their seeds?
About four weeks before the last frost date, sow seeds into sterile seed starting mix in large seedling pots, large soil blocks, or in seedlings trays with large openings—cantaloupe seedlings grow large quickly! Cantaloupe seeds are large seeds that need to go about 1/2″ deep when planted.
How do I grow cantaloupe from seeds?
You can start cantaloupe by starting seedlings indoors or by sowing seeds directly in the garden, depending on your climate. Let’s cover both!
How long does it take for a cantaloupe plant to grow?
Cantaloupe plants are long-season crops, meaning they’ll need 75-80 days of quality warm weather after germination before you can harvest your melons.
How long do cantaloupe seeds take to germinate?
In warm soil (above 75°F), cantaloupe seeds will pop up quickly—within 3-5 days. In cooler soils, it might take as long as a week to 10 days before they germinate.
Can I grow cantaloupe vertically?
Sure can! Cantaloupe cultivars with smaller fruits can be grown up a strong trellis or fence without much (if any) fruit support. For full-size cantaloupes, you’ll want to create a hammock for each melon to help support them on the trellis. Pieces of cloth, old pantyhose, or mesh bags are great for making the hammocks.
Can you grow cantaloupe in a raised bed or containers?
Cantaloupe vines are big plants that like to spread out, but you can absolutely grow them in raised beds or containers! Smaller, bushier cultivars (like Minnesota Midget) are a great option for container gardening. For raised bed gardening, you might have your vines overflow the edges of the bed, but just as long as they won’t be trampled by feet, wheelbarrows, or other garden tools—that’s just fine!
What can I plant next to cantaloupe? What can’t I?
One of the biggest troublemakers with cantaloupes are pests like squash bugs and cucumber beetles, but thankfully, you can greatly reduce your insect issues with some simple (and beautiful) companion plants! Strongly-scented flowers like marigolds, nasturtiums, and tansy work well to repel squash bugs and cucumber beetles. For veggie integration, you’ll have good luck companion planting cantaloupe with strong-smelling crops like onions, mint (put it in a pot or it’ll take over the bed!), basil, or garlic.
Should I grow melon from seeds or starter plants?
Folks anywhere from zones 4-10 can grow cantaloupe as a summer annual, but because of their long growing time, how you grow them will depend on your climate.
When do cantaloupes grow?
These heat-loving plants are sometimes grown in the south from the early spring or even in the fall. In slightly milder northern climes, they can be grown as an annual summer fruit.
How much humidity does a cantaloupe need?
Cantaloupes prefer higher humidity in their initial growth phase before lowering slightly to around 60 to 70 percent during the flowering and fruit development stages.
What is a cantaloupe?
There are two Cucumis melo muskmelon varieties referred to as cantaloupes. The North American variety ( Cucumismelo var. reticulatus) and the European variety ( C. melo var. cantalupensis ). The net-like pattern on the rind distinguishes the North American cantaloupe, and it has a subtler flavor than the European type.
What is the fruit of a cantaloupe melon?
This melon comes from the plant Cucumis melo var. reticulatus —a fruiting vine. The cantaloupe is easily recognized by the beige, netted pattern ...
How big do cantaloupes get?
Cantaloupes typically grow to be 3 to 4 pounds when ripe, but some cultivars have been known to reach up to 20 pounds!
What happens when fruit production starts?
When fruit production does start, it might sound counterproductive but cut off new blossoms on the end of the vine. This will decrease the yield but increase the size and taste of the fruit already on the vine.
How much water do melons need?
While the plants are growing, blooming, and setting fruit, they need two gallons of water per week. Watering in the morning is preferred to allow leaves to dry off in the afternoon to prevent the development of fungus or mildew. As the fruit grows, taper the watering. Hot, dry conditions in the final stages of maturation produce the sweetest melons.
What is the best way to grow cantaloupe?
Mulch is another factor to consider when growing cantaloupe. Mulch not only keeps the soil warm, which these plants enjoy, but it helps retain moisture, minimizes weed growth, and keeps fruit off the soil (of course, you can set them on small pieces of board too).
How deep should I plant cantaloupe seeds?
Seeds are usually planted anywhere from ½ to 1 inch (1 to 2.5 cm.) deep, and in groups of three. Although not required, I like to plant them in small hill or mounds as I do with other cucurbit members. Cantaloupe plants are generally spaced about 2 feet (61 cm.) apart with rows 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 m.) apart.
What is the name of the melon that grows in the garden?
The cantaloupe plant, also known as muskmelon, is a popular melon that is commonly grown in many home gardens, as well as commercially. It is easily recognized by the net-like rind and sweet orange color inside. Cantaloupes are closely related to cucumbers, squash, and pumpkins and, therefore, share similar growing conditions.
How much water do cantaloupe plants need?
Following the planting of cantaloupe plants, you’ll need to water them thoroughly. They’ll also require weekly watering of around 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm.) worth, preferably through drip irrigation.
Can you plant cantaloupes on a fence?
Note: You can also plant cantaloupes along a fence or allow the plants to climb a trellis or small stepladder. Just make sure to add something that will cradle the fruits as they grow—such as a sling made from pantyhose—or set the fruits on the steps of your ladder.
Can you grow cantaloupes from squash?
Anyone growing cucurbits (squash, cucumber, pumpkin, etc.) can grow cantaloupes. When planting cantaloupe, wait until the threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed in spring. You can either sow seeds directly in the garden or in flats inside (do this well before their initial planting outdoors), or you can use transplants purchased from reputable nurseries or garden centers.
How long does it take for cantaloupe to grow?
Plant cantaloupes in full sun in well-drained soil. Cantaloupe plants need about 85 days to mature, but don't rush planting. Sow seeds only when temperatures reliably stay above 50 to 60 degrees F. Plant in groups of two or three seeds spaced 2 feet apart. Once seedlings emerge, keep only the strongest individual plant in each group, pulling the rest.
What is the color of cantaloupe?
The word cantaloupe actually refers to two types of muskmelons, including the one most commonly grown in North America and a European cantaloupe, with light green skin. Not all muskmelons are cantaloupes.
How to tell if a cantaloupe is ripe?
How to Tell If a Vine-Grown Cantaloupe Is Ripe. Grow Cantaloupe. Cantaloupes ripen 35 to 45 days after pollination, depending on weather conditions. The skin turns from green to creamy yellow-beige, the surface "netting" becomes rough, and the tendrils near the fruit turn brown and dry.
How long do cantaloupes last?
Cantaloupes can be stored at 45 to 50 degrees F for about one to two weeks. Bonus Recipe: Smoky Sweet and Sour Cantaloupe.
Do cantaloupes have male and female flowers?
Cantaloupes produce separate male and female flowers as well as some flowers with both male and female parts. The first flowers to appear are male and will fall off. For female flowers to set fruit, pollen must be carried by bees during a small window of time when pollination can occur.
Can you grow cantaloupe in a garden?
Colorful and bright, cantaloupe is the perfect addition to an edible garden. This sweet member of the melon family can be grown at home with tender care and a little luck. These fool-proof techniques will get you started.
Can you grow cantaloupe without fruit?
Pollination and Growing Cantaloupe. Grow Cantaloupe. One of the hardest parts about growing your own cantaloupe is that it may flower but not produce fruit. Pollination problems can come from several situations: Cantaloupes produce separate male and female flowers as well as some flowers with both male and female parts.
What is a cantaloupe?
Cantaloupes are a variety of muskmelon ( Cucumis melo ), that have a tan, netted outer skin, and subtle flavor. Other similar melon varieties include the honeydew melon, the Persian melon, and the Armenian cucumber.
How to grow sweeter melons?
Once fruit begins to grow, reduce your watering, as dry weather is best for sweeter melons. Mulch. Using black plastic mulch will not only help inhibit weed growth but keep your soil warm and your fruits clean as they develop. Cantaloupes germinate best in a warm soil temperature around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
What are some good companion plants for cantaloupe?
Practice companion planting. Planting cantaloupes near members of the cabbage family like cauliflower, broccoli, and kale all make good companions for these melons, as well as onions, chives, and garlic. You can also plant melons near spinach, okra, and sunflowers, which have also been known to make solid companion plants—but keep your melon crop away from potatoes. Since cantaloupes produce male and female flowers as they develop, planting with crops that could help bring in bees for pollination will also be beneficial to their growth.
How long does it take for cantaloupe to mature?
Cantaloupes take around 90 days from seed to fully mature. Rinds that are tan or yellow indicate ripeness. You should detect a mild cantaloupe scent. When your ripe melon is ready to harvest, the connecting stem will crack, making the fruit easy to pick.
Can you plant cantaloupe with a row cover?
Cantaloupes are susceptible to aphids, cucumber beetles, spider mites, squash bugs, and other garden pests. Companion planting and row covers can help protect your crop from these pests, as well as reducing the chance of root rot and vine wilting. Practice companion planting.
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How long do cantaloupes last?
Once fruit is cut, it will keep for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Uncut cantaloupes stored at 45℉ to 50℉ last up to 2 weeks.
What family does cantaloupe belong to?
Rotate where you plant cantaloupe and members of the cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae), such as other melons, squash, or pumpkins.
Where is Chimayo Melon from?
Chimayo Melon – Spanish heirloom from northern New Mexico.
Can cantaloupe grow in the desert?
Cantaloupe thrives in warm weather and needs a long growing season; great news for desert dwellers. Learn how to grow cantaloupe, and add this tasty fruit to your garden and table. Once cantaloupe is picked, it continues to ripen but does not get any sweeter.
How to get cantaloupe to turn into fruit?
Water regularly until you start to notice flowers turning into melons. Cantaloupes need plenty of water to set fruit. Once you see actual melons beginning to grow, cut back on watering. Water too much while your melons grow and you’ll likely get bland-tasting fruit.
What zone do cantaloupes grow in?
Growing Zones. Cantaloupe will grow in zones 4-11, with a bit of extra care and attention required in colder zones, since fruit flavor depends mostly on watering and warm temperatures.
Why do melon grow in mounds?
Why? This method of planting prevents water from pooling in one location and rotting the roots of the plant. The mounds also help retain heat, which melons love .
Why is my cantaloupe plant getting mildew?
It sounds like your cantaloupe plant has contracted powdery mildew. It’s a common infection caused by a fungus. It’s not the end of the world, though. Avoid watering from above and remove affected foliage.
What is a sugar cube cantaloupe?
It’s an excellent variety for northern climates like mine. Sugar cube: Produces smallish cantaloupes with deep orange flesh and dense netting on the rind. Tasty Bites: An adorable mini cantaloupe variety that produces round or oval fruits weighing at most 2.5 lbs.
How do cutworms gnaw cantaloupe?
Cutworms gnaw through growing cantaloupe plants at the base by the soil. Keep the ground around plants clear, use collars to protect plants, and spread diatomaceous earth around plants.
What causes pink spores on cantaloupe?
Anthracnose causes pink spores to form on cantaloupe leaves. Rotate your crops and use disease-free seed.
What kind of soil do cantaloupes like?
Cantaloupes do best in well-draining soil that’s a mix between loamy and sandy. Plant in a spot that gets full sun. To produce the best melons, the plants need all the light they can get. Plus, afternoon sun will dry off leaves, reducing the risk of fungal and other diseases that come with wet foliage.
What Is a Cantaloupe?
Cantaloupes are a type of melon with a tan-green rind. Typically, the rind is covered in a spiderweb-like pattern, though some varieties may also be striped. Inside, the flesh is bright orange and sweet. Their growing requirements are similar to that of other popular melons, such as watermelons and honeydew melons.
How long can you keep cantaloupe uncut?
Melons will soften after harvesting, but will not continue to sweeten off the vine. Cantaloupe can be stored uncut for 5 or 6 days.
How to tell when cantaloupe is ripe?
Be careful not to pick too early, however. Look for a crack in the stem where it attaches to the fruit. This is a sign of ripeness as well.
How long can cantaloupe be stored?
Cantaloupe can be stored uncut for 5 or 6 days. If cut, they can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days, wrapped tightly in plastic.
Why do my muskmelon vines taste bland?
If your muskmelons taste bland, the trouble could be a lack of magnesium in sandy soil. Sweeten the fruit by spraying the vines with this solution: Dissolve 6 ½ tablespoons of Epsom salts and 3 ⅓ tablespoons of borax in 5 gallons of water.
How to keep fruit plants moist?
If possible, use drip irrigation to keep plants consistently and evenly watered. Mulching around the plants can help to retain moisture. Reduce watering once fruits are growing.
How long does it take for cantaloupe to ripen?
Expect the cantaloupes to ripe 35 to 45 days after the plants flower. Don't overwater the melons during the final week of fruit set to keep the cantaloupes as sweet as possible. A.J. Andrews' work has appeared in Food and Wine, Fricote and "BBC Good Food.".
What is the best soil for cantaloupe?
Cantaloupes do best in well-draining, sandy soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5.
How to cover seeds with soil?
Cover the seeds with the surrounding soil by hand. Connect a garden hose to the soaker hose.
How to make a raised bed with mulch?
Cut a 12-foot long sheet of black plastic mulch from a roll measuring 60 inches wide, using a utility knife. Place the mulch over the raised bed during the hottest time of day.
How to make a trapezoidal shape?
Build a 6-inch tall soil bed that measure 4 feet wide and 9 feet long with sides tapered at a 45-degree angle , using a shovel. Use a garden rake to smooth the top of the soil bed and flatten the sides with the bottom of the shovel to make a trapezoidal shape.
How to get rid of weeds in a garden?
Remove all the weeds and debris from a 10-by-12 1/2-foot wide plot of soil in an area that receives full sunlight. Work the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches, using a mechanical tiller. Distribute 3 3/4 pounds of 5-10-10 fertilizer over the soil and till it again to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.
Can you overwater cantaloupes?
Don't overwater the melons during the final week of fruit set to keep the cantaloupes as sweet as possible.
