Crop Rotation Group
Cucurbits (Squash family) ●
Soil
Rich soil with plenty of compost added. Often grown in widely spaced enriched hills, or in well-aged compost heaps that include some soil.
Position
Full sun.
Frost tolerant
No.
Feeding
After plants set fruit, feed twice, at two week intervals, with a water soluble plant food.
Companions
Nasturtium, Marigold, Oregano, Corn, Pumpkin, Radish, Squash, Beans and Morning Glory.
Spacing
Single Plants: 2' 11" (90cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 2' 11" (90cm) with 2' 11" (90cm) row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Sow seeds 1 inch deep in rows, or in hills spaced 6 feet apart. After 2 weeks, thin to 2 plants per hill.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Fruit size varies with variety. Small melons mature quickly and take up less space compared to huge varieties.
Harvesting
Harvest when sound holow if tapped hard. Wipe clean and store indoors.
Troubleshooting
Control weeds early and then mulch to avoid trampling the vines after fruits have set.
Pests which Affect Melon
Aphids (General)
Cucumber Beetle, Spotted
Cucumber Beetle, Striped
Slug
Snail
Plant Diseases which Affect Melon
Cucumber Mosaic Virus
Squash Anthracnose
Squash Bacterial Wilt
Squash Downy Mildew
Squash Powdery Mildew