Growing Cantaloupe (Muskmelon) in the Midwest
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By Agnes Farside
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Muskmelon, also known as cantaloupe in the Midwest (the names are interchangeable), is similar to the cucumber in its requirements for growing, except that it needs a longer growing season. Most varieties in the Midwest have pink or green flesh with netted rinds. The muskmelon gets its name from the aroma it emits when it is ripe, which is a musk smell. Although some people think of muskmelon as a fruit, it is actually a vegetable.
Planting
Muskmelons need warm weather and warm soil in order for seeds to germinate, so plant after all danger of frost has passed. Seeds can be started in individual containers indoors, three to four weeks ahead of time and then transplanted outside. If planting seeds, sow them one inch deep, in rows five feet apart. Seedlings should be thinned to about every 18 inches. If seeds are planted in hills, thin to three plants with the hills being four feet apart.
Taking Care of Your Melons
Rich well-drained soil that has been fertilized will produce bumper crops of melons. Adding a little nitrogen when vines begin to grow will also help. Mulching with black plastic or straw will produce a favorable advantage to melons. Lay the plastic or straw down two weeks before planting, being sure to leave holes for the seeds or seedlings. Melons will not do well if there is excessive rain or extreme droughts. Watering will be needed if there are long dry spells. Vines must remain healthy in order to produce succulent melons.
Harvest Time
When melons are ripe (mid to late summer), the rinds will turn a tan or yellow color and should be picked when stems separate from where they attach to the vine. Pick melons early in the day when dry, being careful not to damage the vines. At the beginning of the harvest season, you will probably pick melons every other day and then every day when the season is in full swing.
Problems
Melons are susceptible to Powdery Mildew, Alternaria Leaf Blight, and the Cucumber beetle. Cultural conditions such as too wet or too dry weather can cause plants to not produce or stunt the growth of melons.
Other Melons
Honeydew, Crenshaw, and Casaba should not be confused with muskmelon, as these require different growing cultures, require a longer growing season, have a smooth surface, and do not have the musk smell. Because these types of melons need a longer growing season, they may not be suitable to grow in the northern areas of the Midwest. Honeydew and Crenshaw melons are ready to pick when they have turned completely yellow and will continue to ripen over a few days when stored at room temperature.
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Author Bio Box: Agnes Farside
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