Before the vines begin running from the fruit, weed the area and fertilize the plants periodically. 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. 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When planting cantaloupe, wait until the threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed in spring. Amend the soil with compost… The key to growing juicy cantaloupe is having plenty of sunshine, heat, and moisture. In the summer it keeps the soil moist and protects the plants from sudden heavy rain that can damage the crop. Use weed killers and chemical pest controls only as a last resort. Start cantaloupe seed indoors about 6 weeks before transplanting seedlings into the garden. Wet the soil generously during planting. Plants can take anywhere from … There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. 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. I can say that next year I will have amazing cantaloupe! Only pick them off if you don't want any fruit. Make sure you wait to put your plants in when the soil is around 65 °F (18 °C). % of people told us that this article helped them. Place them on a paper towel and place the seeds an inch or more apart from each other. A lack of pollinating insects can result in healthy-looking vines that never set. 2 Dig your garden soil to remove rocks and weeds, and mix a 3-inch layer of compost with the soil. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Last Updated: December 5, 2019 Growing cantaloupes require a lot of nutrients, so it’s best to improve your soil by mixing in several inches of compost or other rich organic matter. Disclosure. ", "I love wikiHow! If you started your cantaloupe indoors, plant your biodegradable pot in the middle of each mound, as close to the center as possible. This article was co-authored by Andrew Carberry, MPH. Using a spray bottle, fully dampen the paper … Before planting your cantaloupe, use a loamy soil enriched with well-rotted compost or aged manure to make sure your melon has plenty … Approved. It's a common misconception and fear that cantaloupes will cross with other members of the same family, including cucumbers, other melons, squash, and pumpkins. Drip-tape can be quite effective in watering your melons, but you can also hand-water or do whatever is appropriate for the size of your plot and other planting projects. When rinds begin to change from green to tan or yellow, the melon is typically ripe enough to pick. Also, would trimming excessive runners help in making fruit? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 319,975 times. Growing cantaloupes in pots only requires a tote-sized container, and from there you can decide if you want you want to Once the ground temperature is about 70 °F, plant the cantaloupe in the middle of the mounds, and keep the soil moist. This article has been viewed 319,975 times. If your melon plants struggle to produce, but you're doing everything by the book, try tilling some cereal rye in plots you plan on growing in for next season about a month before putting your plants in the ground. You'll likely need at least a 4x6 foot (1.2x1.8 m) area to grow your melons, so be sure you've cleared sufficient space for your plant beds by removing any sticks or rocks in the vicinity. This is normally around February. Studies show that cutting the vines back doesn't increase fruit yield. "I was helped greatly. Varieties noted for their flavor include Hearts of Gold, Ambrosia, Athena, and Honey Bun. The quality of the leaves contribute greatly to the sweetness of the fruit. Most strange or bland-flavored cantaloupe is not the result of accidental cross-breeding, but the result of environmental factors or other problems. If you want to produce better or more fruit, I wouldn't twist, pinch or clip the vines. Fruit. Many gardeners opt out on growing their own melons due to the space a sprawling melon patch takes up, but that’s where growing a cantaloupe vertically on a trellis comes in to play. Should I pick the blossoms off the vine while the plant is fruiting? Cantaloupes can also be trained on a trellis or fence to save space. Reading this article helped me to plant and, "Very in depth and well written. Cantaloupe plants need a constant supply of water, and particular attention should be paid during summer dry spells. To reach 60°F too early, however of each vine to stop it from growing email address to get?! 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