Melon Seed

Melons are truly a warm weather crop. In the south, direct sow when daytime temperatures are hot and soil is quite warm (+75F). For everyone else, start indoors 3-4 weeks before transplanting, in warm (80-90F) soil in deep peat pots to avoid disturbing the roots when transplanting. Melons are best grown on 'hills' or raised beds, and use of dark mulch or weed barrier to control weeds and warm the soil is recommended. Melons should be kept evenly moist (not wet). Cutting back on water when fruit is setting will improve the quality (but don't allow the leaves to wilt). SPECIAL CAUTION: Untreated melon seed is particularly susceptible to failure if planted in soil that is too cool or wet.