How to Grow Cantaloupe
Planning the Site
According to common wisdom, melons should be planted in “hills” or groups. However, this is not mandatory. If you are growing large quantities, it may be impractical.
Preparing the Site
When planting in hills, sow four to six seeds per hill and space the hills 4 to 6 feet apart. Sow ½ to 1 inch deep. After germination, thin and keep the three or four healthiest plants. Row spacing should be 5 to 6 feet. The more compact “bush” types may tolerate closer spacing.
Required Materials
Cantaloupe seeds and fertilizers are the basic requirements.
Watering Requirements
Irrigation before and after planting should be applied to ensure seed germination and emergence of the seedling. Drip irrigation provides water to the plants more uniformly, placing it near the root zone. Thus, less water is used. Drip irrigation also minimizes foliage and fruit disease compared to overhead irrigation. Drip irrigation does not interfere with honeybees and subsequent pollination and fertilization.
Nutrients Required
When setting out transplants, apply a common solution such as 20-20-20. Medium-textured soils (loams) will generally produce higher yields and better-quality melons. In all cases the soil must exhibit good internal and surface drainage. The optimal soil pH range is 5.5 to 7.0.
Seasons
Cantaloupe is a warm-season crop and should not be planted until all danger of frost has passed. The ideal climate for growing cantaloupe is a long, frost-free season with plenty of sunshine and heat, and relatively low humidity.
Expectations/Results
Determining when a melon is ripe is an art. As a general rule, a melon is ripe when the stem begins to dry out. The end of the melon should be soft when pressed with your thumb. A melon is overripe when it is soft all over. Melons can be picked just prior to ripening. Commercial growers pick them just before they are ripe because they ship better and can be stored longer.