- Soil requirements: Melon seeds prefer well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy growth.
- Sunlight needs: Melons require full sun exposure, which means they need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Watering requirements: Melons need consistent watering, especially during the growing season. Water deeply once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering as the fruit matures to prevent splitting.
- Planting season: The best time to plant melon seeds is in the late spring to early summer, after the last frost has passed and the soil temperature is consistently above 70°F (21°C).
- Depth and spacing: Plant melon seeds about 1 inch deep and space them 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 5-6 feet apart. If planting in hills, space the hills 3-4 feet apart with 2-3 seeds per hill.
- Germination time: Melon seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days under optimal conditions.
- Maturity time: Melons generally take about 70-90 days to reach maturity from the time of planting, depending on the variety.
- Harvesting time: The best time to harvest melons is in the early morning when the temperatures are cooler. This helps to preserve the fruit's flavor and texture.
- Harvesting tips: To determine if a melon is ready for harvest, check for a sweet aroma, a slight softening at the blossom end, and a change in skin color. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the melon from the vine, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Store harvested melons in a cool, dry place and consume them within a week for the best flavor.
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