Key points
Embark on a delicious adventure by learning how toplant melon vine seedsat home . Growing your ownmelons offersan copiousness of sweet and juicy rewards , adding a touch ofsummer delightto your garden . This comprehensive guide will lead you through every stride , from seed selection to glean your homegrown melons .
Choosing the Right Melon Seeds
The first step is to select the rightmelon seeds . Consider your climate , available space , andpersonal preferences . Choose from awide varietyof melons , including :
Preparing the Soil
Melons flourish in well - drained , flaxen loam soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 . Amend the filth with compost or manure to better rankness and drainage . Create raised beds toensure proper drain , especially in sphere with heavy corpse filth .
Planting the Seeds
In lovesome climates , plant melon seed directlyin the flat coat in spring or former summer . Incooler climates , start seeds indoors 4 - 6 week before the last frost . Sow seeds 1/2 column inch deep and 2 - 3 inch apart . urine thoroughly after planting .
Watering
Melons require regular watering , specially during red-hot and dry weather . Water profoundly toencourage deep root growth . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to base rot .
Fertilizing
Pollination
Melons are ego - fertile , think of they can pollinate themselves . However , crabbed - pollination between differentmelon varietiescan resultant role in larger , more flavorful fruit . To encourage cross - pollination , attract pollinators to your garden byplanting flowerssuch as marigold , sunflowers , or zinnias .
Thinning and Spacing
Oncemelon seedlings issue , thin them out to secure right spatial arrangement . Remove infirm seedling , leaving the strongest ones . Space cantaloupe and honeydew plant 3 - 4 feet apart , andwatermelon plants6 - 8 feet apart .
Trellising
Tosave spaceand amend air circulation , debate trellis melon plants . expend asturdy trellisor stakes to substantiate the vines as they grow . Trellising alsohelps preclude diseaseand promotes even ripening .
Harvesting
melon are quick to harvest when they are fully matured and have asweet aroma . Check the prow end of the melon vine ; it should beslightly softand give slightly when press . Use asharp knifeto cut the melon vine from the vine , will a short stalk attached .
Final Thoughts: The Sweet Rewards of Homegrown Melons
Growing melons at home is a rewarding experience that provides you with pleasant-tasting , nutrient - productive fruit . By following these footstep and providing your melon with the forethought they need , you could relish thesweet rewardsof your DoL all summertime long .
Information You Need to Know
Q : How often should I water melon plants?A : Water melon plants deeplyevery 2 - 3 days , especially during live and dry conditions . Q : What is the best way to fertilize melon vine plants?A : Fertilize melon plantsevery 2 - 3 weeks with abalanced fertilizer specifically formulatedfor veg or fruits . Q : When should I harvest melons?A : melon are quick to glean when they arefully mature , have asweet smell , and the radical ending isslightly softwhen pressed .