As long as you have the right conditions and enough space, cantaloupe is a breeze to grow. Cantaloupe (like cucumbers and other cucurbits) really love hot weather, and they tend to spread, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough growing space—or you can train them up a fence or trellis to grow them vertically.
How long does it take to grow a cantaloupe?
about 80 to 90 days
Cantaloupe matures in about 80 to 90 days. Melons are normally ready to harvest when they start turning yellow on the bottom and the stem starts turning brown.
How many cantaloupes will one plant produce?
Each plant can produce anywhere from four to eight delicious melons.
What is the best month to plant cantaloupe?
Cantaloupe does best when direct sown. Sow seeds outside about 2 weeks after the last frost date when soil temperatures are about 65℉. In the low desert of Arizona, the best time to plant cantaloupe is from February 15 through July.
Is cantaloupe easier to grow than watermelon?
Cantaloupe are the easiest of all the melon varieties to grow.
Do cantaloupe come back every year?
A: Unfortunately, cantaloupes are an annual and will die off once the vine has finished producing its melons.
How often do you water cantaloupe?
Cantaloupes need about 1 to 2 inches of water per week. If you don’t receive that much rain weekly, water deeply, but infrequently, to reach that amount. As fruits mature, gradually reduce and stop watering, since too much moisture can cause the rinds to split.
What can you not plant with cantaloupe?
Some of the best companion plants for cantaloupes include marigolds, nasturtiums, radishes, and lettuce. Avoid planting cucumbers, watermelons or squash near cantaloupes, as they are susceptible to the same pests!
Can you grow cantaloupe in a raised bed?
Can you grow cantaloupe in a raised bed or containers? Cantaloupe vines are big plants that like to spread out, but you can absolutely grow them in raised beds or containers! Smaller, bushier cultivars (like Minnesota Midget) are a great option for container gardening.
Will cantaloupe climb a trellis?
The good news is that with a pinch of creativity and a dash of careful setup, anyone can train cantaloupe to grow vertically on a trellis of nearly any type. So don’t shy away from growing these delicious melons (Cucumis melo var. reticulatus), which you can learn more about in our growing guide.
Can you grow cantaloupe from store bought fruit?
In order to grow seeds from a store-bought melon, it’s essential the seeds are harvested, cleaned, and stored properly. In addition, many grocery store melons were picked before they were ripe, which can result in immature seeds that won’t germinate.
What is the sweetest cantaloupe?
The sweetest cantaloupe varieties are ‘Charentais’ and ‘Sugar Cube’. The scrumptious sweetness and smooth dense texture of these French-style melons will rival any dessert.
Can you plant watermelon and cantaloupe together?
It’s fine to grow watermelons and cantaloupe side by side. Cross-pollination between melon varieties may occur, but not between watermelons (Citrullus lanatus v.
Can you grow cantaloupe in a 5 gallon bucket?
You can grow cantaloupe in a 5 gallon bucket but you need to choose a dwarf variety that is small and grows small fruit. You also want to use a bucket that is at least 16 inches deep to support the cantaloupe roots. And you need to provide good support to the plant and fruit.
Why are my cantaloupe plants not producing fruit?
The most common reason why cantaloupes will flower but not fruit is that they aren’t getting pollinated. While perfect flowers don’t need external pollination, the other female flowers on the plant do. Of course, there’s no substitute for bees when it comes to pollination.
Can you grow cantaloupe in the house?
That’s why containers are the perfect match for cold-zone growers who want garden-fresh melons: grow your cantaloupe indoors, or in a greenhouse for as long as you need to. Or you can set them outside during the day and bring them indoors at night. The same goes for those of you in extra-hot locations.
Where do cantaloupes grow best?
To produce the best melons, the plants need all the light they can get. Plus, afternoon sun will dry off leaves, reducing the risk of fungal diseases that comes with wet foliage. Cantaloupes do best in well-draining soil that’s a mix between loamy and sandy.
Can dogs eat cantaloupe?
So, can dogs eat cantaloupe? Yes, in moderation. The tasty melon is safe for pups and can be a healthy alternative to traditional treats, especially if your dog is overweight. Even the seeds are harmless, but you should avoid feeding them to your dog intentionally, as they can be a choking hazard.
Do cantaloupes self pollinate?
Although cantaloupes are different than other vining crops because they have flowers which contain male and female parts as well as those which contain only male parts, pollination by bees is still necessary.
Do cantaloupes like coffee grounds?
Coffee grounds increase the taste of Cantaloupes. Nutrients in the coffee grounds are phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and copper.
What kind of fertilizer do you use on cantaloupe?
Use an inorganic fertilizer or organic equivalent to fertilize cantaloupes. Inorganic options include 10-10-10 (at planting) and 21-0-0 (for side dressing after plants set runners; organic options include compost and well-aged manures.