Melon 'Cantaloupe'

To be frank, melons are a challenge to grow here in the Pacific NW because these fruits need about three months of primo weather to reach their best flavor. Warming the spring soil by putting black plastic on the ground and row covers on top may help jump-start these heat-lovers. Full sun, as in at least six hours (and preferably afternoon) and well-draining soil are a must, as is regular watering and fertilizing. Give melons lots of room to sprawl and when fruits begin to appear, raise them up off the ground and (horrors) pinch out any that start too late in the season to mature before freeze. Your patience and diligence will pay off in flavorful, sweet melons.

Common Name: Cantaloupe

Culinary Uses: Fresh is best

Harvest Time: 80 - 85 days after transplanting. Melon stem will start to crack at point of attachment, fruit color is brown, not green, fragrant at blossom end.

Mature Size: 36" - 60" wide

Growth Rate: Moderate

Cold Hardiness: 40°

Characteristics: Heavy feeder, needs regular water and fertilizer

Light:

• Full Sun
• Afternoon Sun

Structure: Spreading

Photos: Real images, not stock photos

Please Note: When Ground Shipping is selected, plants will be shipped on the following Monday to help maintain the plant quality.