Overview

Planting melon seedlings is a rewarding task that can lead to adelicious bountyof sweet-scented , juicy fruit . With the right preparation and concern , you canenjoy homegrown melonsthat will affect your family and friends . This comprehensive scout will walk you through every step of the physical process , from choosing the correct varieties to transplant the seedlings into the garden .

Choosing Melon Varieties

The first measure is to select themelon varietiesthat good suit your clime and preferences . Consider the following factors :

Starting the Seeds Indoors

embark on yourmelon seedlings indoors4 - 6 calendar week before the last Robert Lee Frost date in your expanse . fill up source trays with a well - draining seed starting mixand sow the seeded player 1/2 in deep . Keep the tray warm and moist , and provide stack of light .

Transplanting the Seedlings

When the seedlings have developed their first set oftrue leaves , it ’s time to transplant them intoindividual containersor the garden . transpose into Containers :

Transplanting into the Garden :

Watering and Fertilizing

Melons need veritable watering , particularly during hot , dry weather . Water the plants deeply at the foot , avoid the leaves . Fertilize the plants every 2 - 3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer .

Mulching and Weed Control

Mulch the soil around themelon plantsto retain wet , suppress weeds , andregulate ground temperature . Organic mulches , such as stubble or wood chips , are ideal . Keep the mulch away from the stems of the industrial plant to prevent rot .

Pollination

melon are monecious , mean they have both male and distaff flowerson the same plant . However , the virile flowers typically blossom first . To ensure unspoiled pollination , handwriting - pollinate the plants by transferring pollen from the manlike blossom to the distaff flowers using acotton swabor small clash .

Pest and Disease Management

melon vine are susceptible to a mixed bag of pests and diseases . Monitor yourplants regularlyand take appropriate measures to control any problems that rise . uncouth pests include aphids , spider jot , andsquash vine borers . usual disease let in powdery mould , downy mildew , and anthracnose .

Harvesting

melon are quick to glean when they reach theirfull sizeand color and thestem slips easilyfrom the fruit . employ a acuate tongue to dilute the melon from the vines . Store the melon vine in a cool , teetotal placefor up to 2 calendar week .

Final Thoughts

Planting melon vine seedling can be arewarding experiencethat take luscious , homegrown fruit . By following these step , you’re able to guarantee a successful harvest . Remember to choose the proper miscellany , start theseeds indoors , organ transplant carefully , and provide right care throughout the growing time of year . With a little forbearance and effort , you could enjoy the sweet-smelling preference of new picked melon all summertime long .

What People Want to Know

Q : How deeply should I set melon seedlings?A : establish the seedling 1/2inch deepinseed traysand at the same profoundness when transplant into containers or the garden . Q : How often should I water melon plants?A : urine theplants deeplyat the base every 2 - 3 days , specially during hot , dry weather . Q : How can I tell if a melon is ripe?A : Melons are ripe when they reach theirfull sizeand color and thestem slue easilyfrom the yield .