Have you read articles in newspapers and gardening magazines that about the wonderful varieties of "gourmet melons" available these days? I am sure you have looked at the pictures of these beautiful melons and wished you had them in your garden. We will show you how to get these seeds at the end of this article but first let me tell you how to grow these beauties.
- First select fresh seed from your supplier. Most melon seeds are viable for up to 4 years but if you buy from a reputable seller your seeds should have been harvested from the previous year's crop!
- Secondly pick the varieties that your family enjoys. Melons are available in many colors, shapes and sizes. There is everything from the traditional orange, to yellow, green and even white!
- Select a spot that has well-drained soil and at least 80% sun each day.
- Form small mounds about 4 inches tall and plant 3 to 4 seeds per mound. As a rule of thumb plant the seeds 3/4 to 1 inch deep. (The biggest mistake gardeners make is planting seeds to deep!.)
- After the seeds germinate remove all but one or two of the seedlings. Seeds are cheap. If you do this all of the plant's energy will be directed to the remaining plant you will have much healthier and higher yielding plants.
- Try to keep the soil moist until seeds germinate. Do NOT keep soil soggy. This will kill the seeds.
- Water as needed. This is normally about twice a week. When you water, wate slowly and deep. This will result in healthier plants.
- This last step is the best. In from 60 to 105 days enjoy the bounty of your harvest!
by Dave Abbott, The Seed Kingdom
