(C. melo)Despite the American tendency to use the terms “muskmelon” and “cantaloupe” interchangeably, this is a true cantaloupe, something actually quite uncommon in this country. Native to France where it is prized, this melon was grown in the US as early as 1850. We find most people mistake it for winter squash at market for its unusual lumpy skin and squat shape. The drought-tolerant plants prefer a dry season to reach their best quality. True cantaloupes do not slip when ripe. We pick ours when the skin starts to turn from slate grey to blush tan and becomes fragrant. Food historian William Woys Weaver recommends picking them slightly earlier and ripening them on a window sill for the sweetest fruit. Ethereal, intoxicating fragrance and very thick flesh. 85 days. CV, WF, UO
Packet: 25 seeds
Product Code:MEL-PF-pkt
Availability:In stock
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Sow indoors 3-4 weeks before your last frost date. Keep soil moist before emergence, growing at 80-90F, reducing to 75F.
Transplant out 2-3 weeks after your last frost date, when soil has sufficiently warmed.
Direct sow after 2-3 weeks after last frost when soil is 70F+.
Note: Provide ample and even water when transplanting, and take care not to disturb roots.
PLANTING DEPTH:
1/2"
SPACING:
18-24" spacing in rows 5' apart.
EMERGENCE:
5-10 days @ soil temp 75-85F
LIGHT:
Full sun
FERTILITY:
Medium. Prefers well-drained, evenly moist, and well-balanced fertile soil with a pH of 6.5-7. Avoid the addition of excess Nitrogen to soil. Phosphorus and potassium are key for healthy fruit set.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Be gentle while transplanting to keep root system undisturbed.
Consistent warmth and water is essential.
Row cover may be used for extra warmth and possible earlier fruit set. Remove as plants begin to flower.
Keep transplants through fruit set well watered. Cut back water a week or so before ripe to avoid bland tasting fruit.
