Melon Growing GuideUpdated 12 days ago

Melons are sweet, juicy fruits that thrive in warm climates and require plenty of sun and space. Here’s how to successfully sow and grow melons:

When to Sow

• Outdoors: Sow melon seeds after the last frost, when the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F.
• Indoors: For an earlier start, sow seeds 3-4 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors once the weather is consistently warm.

Outdoor Sowing

• Choose a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil.
• Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep, spacing them 18-24 inches apart in rows or hills spaced 4-6 feet apart.
• Melons need plenty of room to spread. Water gently and keep the soil moist until germination (7-10 days). Learn more about growing melons in raised beds.

Indoor Sowing

• Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in biodegradable pots with a light, well-draining soil mix.
• Keep the soil moist and warm (75-85°F).
• Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have two sets of true leaves and the frost danger has passed. Handle seedlings carefully to avoid disturbing the roots.

Care & Maintenance

• Sun & Water: Melons require full sun and regular watering, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage.
• Mulching: Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer when the vines begin to run and again when the fruit starts to set. For tips on pruning to improve yield, check out how to prune melon vines.

Pests & Diseases

• Pests: Common pests include aphids, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs. Protect young plants with row covers and use insecticidal soap if needed.
• Diseases: Melons are susceptible to powdery mildew and fungal diseases, so ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Harvesting

• Melons are ready to harvest when they emit a sweet fragrance and the fruit easily separates from the vine with a gentle tug.
• The underside of the melon should turn yellowish when ripe. For the best flavor, harvest in the morning when the fruit is fully hydrated.

Garden Use

• Melons are perfect for large garden spaces, raised beds, or trellised in small gardens to save space.
• They are excellent companion plants for corn and sunflowers, which can provide some shade to the fruit during the hottest part of the day.