Melons

At one time Melons were considered almost impossible to grow in this country unless you had hothouses, but with new quick maturing varieties like Ogen and Sweetheart, being bred, it has brought them into the scope of the average gardener. They can now be grown under cloches or even in the open in warmer areas.

They need a rich extremely well manured soil with a pH of 6.0.

Sow the seeds in April or March, placing 2 seeds in a 3" pot of compost and germinate at 65F. Remove the weaker seedling when they germinate.

Plant out into prepared beds, under cloches, in May.

It is important to maintain a steady water supply. When the plants have made 3 leaves, pinch out the growing point. The plant will then continue to grow sideshoots that should again be pinched out at 3 leaves. When the fruits start to form, pinch the shoots back to 2 leaves beyond the fruit.

Support the fruits to keep them from lying on the ground; old roof slates are ideal for this purpose.

The fruits are ready for cutting when the ends are pressed and they feel soft.

Melons can be affected by Slugs, Aphids, Mildew and Cucumber Mosaic Virus. (See relevant Pests or Diseases sections)

© copyright 1999, P. A. Owen