Highlights
Growing melons is a rewarding endeavour that brings forth the mellifluous taste of summer . Whether you ’re aseasoned gardeneror a novice look to expatiate yourvegetable repertoire , this comprehensive scout will furnish you with all the knowledge you need to successfully civilize these delicious fruit .
Choosing the Right Melon Variety
The first measure inplanting melonsis selecting the correct variety . There are many dissimilar types of melons , each with itsunique characteristics . Some popular mixed bag admit :
Preparing the Soil
Melons boom in well - drain soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . Before planting , improve the soil with compost or other organic matter toimprove fertilityand drain .
Starting Seeds or Buying Transplants
you’re able to start melon vine seeds indoors 4 - 6 weeks before the lastfrost date . Sow the seeds in a warm , gay locationand keep the soil moist . Once the seedlings have developed their first set of rightful leaves , transplant them outdoors . Alternatively , you canpurchase melon transplantsfrom a garden marrow .
Planting the Melons
When planting melon , space them 2 - 3 invertebrate foot apart in row that are 6 - 8 animal foot aside . Dig a mess deep enough to accommodate theentire root ball . Place themelon plantin the jam and fill it with dirt , gently firmingit around the nucleotide .
Watering and Fertilizing
Melons require regular tearing , particularly during hot , dry conditions . Water deeply and infrequently , permit the soil to dry out slightly between waterings . Fertilize the melons every 2 - 3 hebdomad with a balanced plant food .
Mulching and Weeding
Mulching around the melon plants helps to conserve wet , suppress weeds , and regularise filth temperature . Use a layer of organic mulch , such as straw or woodwind chips . Regularly weed around the plant toprevent competitionfor nutrients and water .
Pollination and Fruit Set
melon are pollinated by insects , so it ’s important toattract pollinatorsto your garden . works bloom thatattract beesand other pollinator . Once the flower are pollinated , the yield will begin to develop .
Harvesting Melons
melon are quick to reap when they strive theirfull sizeand coloring . The rind should be firm andslightly yieldingto pressure . Cut the melons from the vine with asharp knife . Store them in a nerveless , teetotal place for up to 2 weeks .
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Takeaways: The Sweet Rewards of Melon Cultivation
Growing melons is arewarding endeavorthat provide you with delicious , homegrown fruit . By following the footstep outlined in this guide , you may successfully cultivate melon in your own garden and revel the honeyed taste perception of success .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : How long does it take to grow melons?A : Melons typicallytake 80 - 100 day to mature from seed to harvest . Q : Can Igrow melonsin containers?A : Yes , you cangrow melonsin container , but pick out a variety that is suitable forcontainer growingand offer passable financial backing . Q : How can Iprevent melonsfrom cracking?A : Water themelons consistentlyandavoid overwatering . Provide support for the fruits to keep them from touching the ground .