California cantaloupe produces about 75 percent of all cantaloupes grown in the nation. California cantaloupes are grown in two main regions – the Southern Desert Area and on a 200-mile long stretch on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley from Bakersfield to Sacramento.
Where are cantaloupes mostly grown?
China is by far the largest producer of cantaloupes worldwide. However, melons are grown in many temperate countries around the world, including the U.S., which is the 5th largest global producer.
What county in California is the leading producer of cantaloupes?
The majority of cantaloupe production is in the southern San Joaquin Valley (primarily Fresno County). As such, soil, weather, and crop parameters for this scenario nominally represent cantaloupe production in the southern San Joaquin Valley.
What melons are grown in California?
Cantaloupes and honeydews are the most commonly grown in California. A small acreage of other specialty melons, notably casaba and crenshaw, are also grown [9].
What state has the best cantaloupe?
California produced the most cantaloupe in the United States in 2021 followed by Arizona and Georgia. California produced 690.3 million pounds of cantaloupe in 2021, accounting for more than 65% of the cantaloupe produced in the United States.
Do cantaloupes grow in California?
California – Our Nation’s Fruit Basket
The San Joaquin Valley growing area is where most of the cantaloupes in California are grown. Westside cantaloupes are planted in early April through mid-summer and harvest takes place between June and October.
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 grow cantaloupe in Southern California?
The majority of cantaloupes eaten in the U.S. are grown in California’s San Joaquin Valley and the southern desert areas of the state.
Where do they grow watermelon in California?
Watermelons (Citrullus lanatus) are produced in the northern Central Valley (Sacramento, San Joaquin, and Stanislaus Counties); Central Valley (Kern and Tulare Counties); and southern California deserts (Imperial and Riverside Counties).
Where is honeydew grown in the US?
Honeydew does not ripen after it is harvested. Honeydew is known as the “bailan melon” in China. • California produces the majority of honeydew sold in the US.
Is there a cantaloupe shortage?
We’re not expecting a shortage of cantaloupe. Expect to see plenty in your stores for the next several months. But supplies will be tighter and that, in and of itself, will drive prices up. But the biggest factor in anticipated price hikes for food is shipping costs.
What state produces the most watermelon?
Florida
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Summer means relaxing by the pool, barbeques and refreshing slices of watermelon and no one produces more of this favorite summertime fruit than Florida. The Sunshine State is the top producer of watermelon in the United States.
How is cantaloupe harvested?
If so, it’s ready for picking. According to the experts at the Virginia Cooperative Extension, for the best flavor, muskmelons like cantaloupe should be harvested at a stage known as “full slip.” This is when the stem separates easily from the fruit, without twisting or pulling.
Who produces the most cantaloupe in the US?
California
The largest producing States are California (58 percent) and Arizona (26 percent). The United States imports over one-third of the cantaloupes consumed in the country.
Who grows the most cantaloupe?
California
Over 80% of the nation’s cantaloupes were grown in California and Arizona.
What are the benefits of eating cantaloupe?
Cantaloupe Health Benefits
- It’s low in carbs. Cantaloupes are 90% water. That’s almost as juicy as a watermelon.
- It hydrates you. Cantaloupes are filled with electrolytes.
- It may help fight diseases. Compounds called phytonutrients in cantaloupes give it anti-inflammatory properties.
Where is cantaloupe native to?
Cantaloupe has been growing since ancient times in the Nile River Valley in Egypt. It likely first originated in the Middle East or India, but ancient Egyptians and Romans are known to have grown the melon. Cantaloupe was introduced to Europe in the 15th century and became a popular fruit due to its sweetness.
What is Rocky Ford cantaloupe?
Rocky Ford Cantaloupes are famous for their sweet and flavorful taste. The famous Rocky Ford melons have hit the shelves at big box grocery stores and local farmers markets across Colorado and this season is one of the sweetest yet.
What season does cantaloupe grow in?
Quick Reference Growing Guide
| Plant Type: | Annual | Water Needs: |
|---|---|---|
| Season: | Spring, summer, fall (depending on region) | Soil pH: |
| Exposure: | Full sun | Soil Drainage: |
| Time to Maturity: | 65-90 days | Companion Planting: |
| Spacing: | 2-3 feet | Avoid Planting With: |
Why are my homegrown cantaloupes not sweet?
If a lot of fruits are ripening around the same time, they have to split up the available sugars. That means you’ll get more fruits, but all of them would be less sweet. Growers often pinch out developing fruits so that only one of them ripens every two weeks.
What is the best cantaloupe to buy?
Cantaloupe is a seasonal fruit and warm spring weather brings the right time to start purchasing cantaloupe. To select a ripe cantaloupe, look for tan cantaloupe with light green lines across it, and avoid choosing melons with brown or soft spots. The melon should be firm but not too soft or too hard.