Growing Rockmelon, also Canteloupe

Cucumis melo : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      S                
        T              

(Best months for growing Rockmelon in Canada - Zone 5a Temperate Warm Summer regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 20°C and 32°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 40 - 60 cm apart
  • Harvest in 10-16 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Sweetcorn, Sunflowers
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes
  • Young melons
  • Leaves and flowers

Start in small pots then transplant when no danger of frosts. Plant into a raised mound to provide good drainage and warmth. Provide plenty of water.

Ready to use when the fruit falls from the vine.

In cold climate regions start the seeds in a heated greenhouse with plenty of light in order to have a long enough growing season.

Rockmelons may need hand pollination with a soft brush.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Rockmelon

Cut in half and scoop out and discard the seeds.
Sprinkle with some ground ginger or serve plain.

Your comments and tips

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The blank months are when you don't plant seeds or transplant seedlings. The S is for planting seeds early - like indoors (warmer atmosphere inside than outside if planting say spring summer crop). P is normal outdoor planting times and T is plant out your seedlings. These times are a little late. Commercial growers have there seedlings planted by end Sept here sub tropical. Your question is right and wrong to some degree. If all months are blank then nothing grows. Forget about the blank months, the guide is about PLANTING TIMES.

- Anonymous

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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