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Melon / CanteloupeA large edible fruit that requires a temperature of 16°C (60°F) or above for good results, meaning, they are best grown in a greenhouse in the UK The most commonly grown group in the UK is the ‘Cantaloupe’ They require a well drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. They are heavy feeders and require a lot of space, if planting in the greenhouse border keep them at least 1 metre (39") apart.
Week 12; Sow seed on edge into 70mm (3") pots of seed compost and germinate at a temperature of 18°C (65°F)
Alternatively ; sow a number of seeds in a tray and prick out the strongest seedlings (circa Week 14) into individual 70mm (3") pots of seed compost. Once germinated, which should be about five or six days after sowing, reduce the heat to around 16°C (60°F) and place them where they can get as much light as possible
Week 18; Ensure the plants do not become ‘pot-bound’ pot up to 150 mm (6”) pots if necessary. Week 22; When the plants have reached the fifth leaf stage, plant them out into a well prepared greenhouse border or 250mm (10”) pots of potting compost. Insert a cane at this time to a number of horizontal wires at 300mm (1ft) centres. These will support the lateral growths in due course.
Week 24-25; When the main stem has reached the top of the support, pinch out the growing tip. Similarly, lateral shoots should be pinched out when they have formed five leaves.
Week 27-29; Male and female flowers develop on the secondary laterals, the female being distinguished by a swelling like a miniature melon just beneath the bloom. Artificial pollination is necessary to set fruits: strip the petals off a male flower and push the exposed centre into a female flower. Midday or when the sun is at its highest is the best time for pollination. Do not allow more than four fruits to develop on each plant, and not more than one on a single side-shoot. During early growth a humid atmosphere is essential; provide this by frequently damping down the greenhouse floor, and spraying/misting the leaves with clean water. Avoid getting the leaves wet to reduce the risk of contracting mildew. Normally when the fruits have reached their full size less humidity is required. On hot sunny days, lightly shade the glass; at all other times, let the plants have as much light as possible.
Week 30; When the fruits are about the size of a tennis ball, commence feeding with a high potash liquid feed. Stop feeding when the fruit is fully grown. As the fruits become heavy, support them with nets attached to the greenhouse wires.
Harvesting; Fruits are ready to harvest when the skin turns from a shiny colour to a dull matt colour. Squeezing the bottom of the fruit with your thumb is another way of testing for ripening. If ripe you will find that the skin will yield to the pressure subjected by your thumb.
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