what can cantaloupe be planted by

Best Companion Plants For Cantaloupe

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How much space do you need to grow cantaloupe?

How much space do you need to grow cantaloupe? Space plants 36 to 42 inches apart. Or, to save space, plant melons 12 inches apart at the base of a trellis. When trellising melons, tie vines to the trellis daily, using soft plant ties that won’t crush stems. A trellis for cantaloupe should be large: up to 8 feet tall and 20 feet wide in ...

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. ...

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How to grow cantaloupe from fresh 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. ...

How long does cantaloupe take to grow?

When raised in proper lighting, watering and feeding conditions, cantaloupes can mature in as little time as 80 days, or about 12 weeks. Most healthy cantaloupes will mature within 120 days, or around 17 weeks. One type of cantaloupe, the "Earlisweet" variety, matures in 68 days. It grows only to weigh up to 3 lbs. and is very sweet.

Can I plant cantaloupe near tomatoes?

Tomatoes and peppers don't thrive with melons because melons take up so much space they crowd them out. Also, don't plant melons next to plants that will shade them, because they need full sun.

Can cantaloupe be planted near onions?

5. 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.

What can be planted near melons?

Melons are one of the most compatible plants in the garden and do well when planted with peas, pole beans, bush beans, onions, leeks, chives, and garlic. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, kale, okra, spinach, sunflowers, lettuce, and Brussels sprouts also flourish in the companionship of melons.

Can you plant cantaloupe next to pumpkins?

You can plant pumpkins next to other squash, melons and cucumbers. When we purchase and plant a seed of one of these tasty vegetables; that seed grows into fruit we desire.

Can I plant cantaloupe next to zucchini?

Avoid planting zucchini and summer squash with all other vining plants which include cucumbers and sweet potatoes as well as pumpkins, winter squashes, and melons.

Where do cantaloupes grow best?

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 diseases that comes with wet foliage. Cantaloupes do best in well-draining soil that's a mix between loamy and sandy.

Can I plant watermelon and cantaloupe next to each other?

It's fine to grow watermelons and cantaloupe side by side. Cross-pollination between melon varieties may occur, but not between watermelons (Citrullus lanatus v. lanatus) and cantaloupes (Cucumis melo ssp. melo v.

Can you plant cantaloupe next to corn?

Cantaloupe, also known as muskmelon, thrives in the sunniest garden spot. They grow prolifically in well-enriched, sandy loam soil that is kept moist during the growing season. Companion plants for cantaloupe include corn, pumpkin, squash, collards, borage, oregano, radishes, marigolds, petunias and beans.

How many cantaloupes will one plant produce?

Each plant can produce anywhere from four to eight delicious melons.

What can you not plant near 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!

What should you not plant near a pumpkin?

Consulting a companion planting chart will also show you what not to plant together. For example, pumpkins don't typically make good companions for potatoes, or anything in the brassicas (cabbage) family like cauliflower, kohlrabi, Brussels sprouts, or kale.

Will pumpkins cross pollinate with cantaloupe?

Muskmelon, Cantaloupe, Charentais; Honeydew; Casaba; Armenian Cucumber; Snake melon (gourd) can all cross with each other, but not with squashes, pumpkins, or cucumbers.

What can you not plant near 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!

What are good companion plants for onions?

11 Companion Plants to Grow With OnionsCabbage. Onions will generally work best with Brassicas, members of the cabbage family. ... Chamomile. ... Summer savory. ... Carrots. ... Leeks. ... Beets. ... Lettuce. ... Strawberries.More items...•

How far apart should cantaloupe be planted?

Space plants 36 to 42 inches apart. Or, to save space, plant melons 12 inches apart at the base of a trellis. When trellising melons, tie vines to the trellis daily, using soft plant ties that won't crush stems. A trellis for cantaloupe should be large: up to 8 feet tall and 20 feet wide in warmest climates.

Can you plant cantaloupe next to corn?

Cantaloupe, also known as muskmelon, thrives in the sunniest garden spot. They grow prolifically in well-enriched, sandy loam soil that is kept moist during the growing season. Companion plants for cantaloupe include corn, pumpkin, squash, collards, borage, oregano, radishes, marigolds, petunias and beans.

How long does it take for a cantaloupe plant to produce fruit?

The time it takes a cantaloupe plant to bear fruit is different for different cultivars. According to this article, the time to bear fruit varies f...

How late can you plant cantaloupe?

Generally speaking, it is okay to plant cantaloupes after the 1st week of August. They are usually planted in early to mid-June and will reach full...

How easy is it to grow cantaloupe?

Cantaloupes are one of the easiest melons to grow in North America. They are tolerant of cool temperatures and are very hardy, which makes them a g...

Are cantaloupes annuals or perennials?

Cantaloupes are a perennial, which means that they will live for years. They are best grown in well-drained soils, and should be pruned regularly t...

Why is my cantaloupe taking so long to mature?

This is a difficult question. In theory, the cantaloupe plants should be growing and maturing fruit, but they might not be. They could be taking a...

What does a cantaloupe look like when it starts to grow?

It will have a slight green coloration and have small bumps on the skin. The bumps are the seeds and they will be about 1/4" in diameter. I think y...

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.

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 causes white powdery growth on plants?

Powdery mildew stunts plant growth and causes white powdery growth on plant leaves and stems. Sanitize your equipment between use and make sure plants have plenty of air circulation.

How to keep flea beetles away from plants?

Flea beetles chew shot holes through plant leaves and can be so damaging that they can kill plants. Use floating row covers and trap crops, along with a layer of mulch to keep them under control.

Why are my whitefly leaves brittle?

This disease is caused by a virus that is transmitted by whitefly. You’ll notice mottling leaves that eventually curl and become brittle. Keep whitefly away to avoid this disease.

How do cabbage loopers kill plants?

Cabbage loopers chew holes in leaves and can decimate a plant. You’ll recognize the caterpillar by its inching motion. Hand pick them from plants or use a good insecticide.

How long does it take to plant cantaloupe seeds?

Plant your cantaloupe seeds in the garden or set out the transplants 3 to 4 weeks after the last average frost date in the spring. Sow your cantaloupe seeds indoors about 6 weeks before transplanting seedlings into the garden. Use biodegradable peat or paper pots that can be set directly into the garden. Keep your seedlings or seeds away ...

What is the name of the fruit that grows in the garden?

The cantaloupe plant is also known as muskmelon, is popular and grows in many home gardens. It is easy to recognize this fruit by its net-like rind and sweet orange flesh color. Cantaloupes are closely related to squash, cucumbers, and pumpkins and share the same growing conditions. Summer is always the best time to enjoy your supply ...

How to get a plant to germinate in a pot?

Once your seeds germinate, lower the soil temperature slightly to mid-70 degrees for 1 to 2 weeks and decrease the amount of water you give. Thin the seedlings to leave one plant per pot or cell.

How to keep melon plants from wilting?

To prevent insect damage on the developing fruits, place your melon plants on pieces of wood.

What is the best soil for cantaloupe?

Cantaloupe prefers well-drained soils that are warm and high in organic matter with pH 6.5 to 7.5. Consistent and adequate moisture is needed until fruit is about the size of a tennis ball. Ensure that your soil temperatures are below 50 degrees F for slow growth.

Why do you need to mulch after planting?

Mulch the plants after the soil have warmed up to help maintain consistent moisture and suppress weeds. You can use a fabric cover but remove them during flowering to allow pollination by bees. Good pollination is critical to the setting of the fruit.

How to treat fungal leaf infection?

Look out for fungal leaf infection that spreads rapidly and affects both the leaves and fruits. Treat fungal leaf infection with fungicides approved in your state.

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.

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 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).

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.

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.

What is the melon called in North America?

The melon people in North America know as the cantaloupe is also often referred to as the muskmelon. More accurately, however, the term muskmelon refers to any Cucumis melo species.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Why are my cantaloupe vines not setting?

A lack of pollinating insects can result in healthy-looking vines that never set. Cantaloupe vines produce male and female flowers, and pollination between them is necessary for fruiting. If you're growing cantaloupe in a greenhouse, or live somewhere that bees are scarce, you might need to pollenate by hand.

How to grow cantaloupe indoors?

If you started your cantaloupe indoors, plant your biodegradable pot in the middle of each mound, as close to the center as possible.

Why do you cover cantaloupe before planting?

If you want, it's common to cover the ground of your plot with plastic film or weed matting prior to planting, to speed the warming process of the soil. It's important to plant cantaloupe starts in warm soil to promote healthy growth. ...

How long does it take for cantaloupe to grow?

Cantaloupes, also known as muskmelons, are available in dozens of cultivated and heirloom varieties, and grow best in hot weather, at least 2-3 months of consistent warmth. Cantaloupes love very sandy and loamy soil with good drainage, and a pH of around 6.

What is the best cantaloupe?

There are hundreds of varieties of cantaloupe to choose from, but the classic Hale's Best, a popular melon with old-time growers, is one of the best.

How many testimonials does wikihow have?

wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 18 testimonials and 90% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status.

When do cantaloupe leaves wilt?

It's typical for melon leaves to wilt significantly in the midday and stay wilted looking until the evening in extremely hot weather . This isn't necessarily a sign that you need to water the cantaloupe more, however, so look at the quality of the leaves, not the limpness.

What flowers can help melons fight pests?

Your best defense is giving your melons companions from the start that help them fight pests. Both Nasturtium and Tansy flowers can help to ward off pests as well as Dill. See more on Companion Plants.

How far apart should I plant cantaloupe?

Plant your cantaloupe at least 36 inches apart in traditional gardening. If you’re going to use a trellis the recommend spacing is 12 inches or in Square Foot Gardening 1 plant per square. I do not plant mine in mounds using raised beds but I have seen this advice for traditional planting.

How do I keep my cantaloupe growing?

Watering is the most important part of keeping your cantaloupe growing strong. The need a constantly moist soil, but not drenched; you do not want your soil to dry out! Do your best to deliver water to the base of the plant and avoid soaking the leaves which can cause fungus and spread disease. You’ll want to use drip irrigation or a soaker hose for best results, it is not recommended to use a sprinkler. I prefer to water my melons early in the morning, giving it plenty of time to soak up the moisture before the afternoon sun dries it up.

How to protect newbie fruit?

Protect your newbie fruit as it develops. If it is on the ground you’ll want to gently put a piece of cardboard or melon cradle under the fruit. This will help to prevent pests getting to it and help to promote even ripening.

How long can you keep a melon?

To maximize your melon’s sweetness you’ll want to leave it on the counter for a day or two before eating. You can store your melons for a week or 2 in the fridge. For longer storage you can freeze cantaloupe or make preserves (it is not recommended to can them, though I know people that do).

Can you grow cantaloupe in summer?

Growing cantaloupe is one of my favorites about summer gardening. I don’t grow a lot of fruit in my garden the rest of the year but growing cantaloupe is a MUST for our family. The great this is that growing cantaloupe is fairly easy once you have the right information; my tips will get you on the right path to an amazing harvest!

Do melons ripen after they are picked?

The key to good, sweet melons is letting them fully develop on their vine; picked melons do not ripen much after they are picked. To make sure your fruit is ready to be picked you’ll want to make sure the rind has changed from green to the tan/yellow you expect of a cantaloupe. Then give the baby a sniff.