Main points
- The best time to plant cantaloupe and watermelon is after the last frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F.
- The rind will turn from green to a dull, matte color, and the sound will be dull when you thump it.
- Growing your own cantaloupe and watermelon is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the freshest, most flavorful fruits possible.
Summertime is synonymous with juicy, refreshing watermelon and cantaloupe. These sweet treats are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Growing your own cantaloupe and watermelon can be incredibly rewarding, allowing you to enjoy the freshest, most flavorful fruits possible. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right seeds to harvesting your ripe bounty.
Choosing the Right Variety
Before you start planting, consider the varieties of cantaloupe and watermelon that best suit your climate and preferences.
Cantaloupe:
- Early Season: For faster harvests, choose early-maturing varieties like ‘Early Jewel’ or ‘Early Cantaoupe’. These varieties are perfect for shorter growing seasons.
- Mid-Season: ‘Sugar Baby’ and ‘Hale’s Best’ are popular mid-season choices known for their sweetness and flavor.
- Late Season: ‘Eden’ and ‘Gold Medal’ are late-season varieties that offer exceptional sweetness and juiciness.
Watermelon:
- Seedless: ‘Black Diamond’ and ‘Crimson Sweet’ are popular seedless varieties that are perfect for snacking.
- Watermelon with Seeds: ‘Yellow Doll’ and ‘Orangeglo’ are classic varieties with a sweet, juicy flavor.
- Citrullus Lanatus: This variety is known for its dark green rind and red flesh. It is a good choice for those who prefer a more intense flavor.
Preparing the Soil
Cantaloupe and watermelon thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Here’s how to prepare your soil for planting:
- Test the Soil: Use a soil testing kit to determine the pH of your soil. If the pH is too low, amend the soil with lime. If the pH is too high, amend the soil with sulfur.
- Amend the Soil: Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
- Till the Soil: Till the soil to a depth of 12 inches to loosen the soil and remove any weeds.
Planting Time
The best time to plant cantaloupe and watermelon is after the last frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F.
- Direct Sowing: Plant seeds directly into the garden bed, spacing them 12-18 inches apart.
- Starting Seeds Indoors: For a head start, you can start seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost.
Watering and Fertilizing
Cantaloupe and watermelon are thirsty plants, requiring regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Watering: Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize your plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10.
Supporting Vine Growth
As your cantaloupe and watermelon vines grow, they may need support to prevent them from sprawling on the ground.
- Trellises: You can use trellises to support the vines vertically, making it easier to harvest the fruits.
- Cages: Cages can also be used to support the vines, allowing them to grow upwards.
Pest and Disease Control
Cantaloupe and watermelon are susceptible to various pests and diseases.
- Pests: Common pests include aphids, squash bugs, and cucumber beetles.
- Diseases: Common diseases include powdery mildew, anthracnose, and fusarium wilt.
- Prevention: Rotate crops annually to help prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Harvesting Your Bounty
Cantaloupe and watermelon are ready for harvest when the fruit is fully ripe.
- Cantaloupe: The rind will turn from green to a creamy yellow, and the stem will detach easily.
- Watermelon: The rind will turn from green to a dull, matte color, and the sound will be dull when you thump it.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
Once your cantaloupe and watermelon are harvested, store them in a cool, dry place.
- Cantaloupe: Cantaloupe can be stored for up to a week at room temperature.
- Watermelon: Watermelon can be stored for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Sweet Success: A Rewarding Experience
Growing your own cantaloupe and watermelon is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the freshest, most flavorful fruits possible. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy melon.
Top Questions Asked
Q: How long does it take for cantaloupe and watermelon to ripen?
A: Cantaloupe takes about 70-80 days to ripen, while watermelon takes about 80-100 days.
Q: Can I grow cantaloupe and watermelon in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow cantaloupe and watermelon in containers. Choose a container that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep.
Q: What are some common problems that can occur when growing cantaloupe and watermelon?
A: Common problems include pests, diseases, and inadequate watering.
Q: Can I save seeds from my cantaloupe and watermelon to plant next year?
A: Yes, you can save seeds from your cantaloupe and watermelon to plant next year. However, the seeds may not be true to type, meaning the resulting fruit may not be the same as the original.
Q: What are some tips for preventing pests and diseases?
A: Rotate crops annually, water deeply and infrequently, and use a fungicide to prevent diseases.
