Grow Melons
PLANTING DATES
MARCH - ARPRIL (Indoor Start) | MID MAY (Outdoor Transplant or Direct Seed)
MARCH - APRIL (INDOOR STARTS)
It is recommended to start melons indoors to make the most of their longer (80-95 days) growing season here in the higher altitude - shorter growing season of the rocky mountain foothills.
Melons can be started indoors the last week of March and then transplanted into the garden about 1-3 weeks after the last frost (March 4th for Boulder), which is typically around mid May or around Mother’s Day.
MAY (PLANT OUTDOORS)
In late May or early June, identify a sunny spot where you can direct-sow seeds outdoors or in a covered-structure that stays warm overnights. Make sure to remove weeds, adequately till the soil, and add any required nutrients (NPK) or amendments (compost). This creates a healthy environment for your veggies to thrive.
Wait for the soil to warm to at least 70 degrees before planting melon seeds or transplants. This may mean waiting several weeks after the last average Spring frost date (March 4th for Boulder, CO). Planting in cool weather or soil will set plants back and they'll need more time to recover, so it pays to wait. Watermelon and honeydew are more cold-sensitive than cantaloupe.
SOIL
The Big Three. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) known as "primary nutrients," are the three main ingredients in most fertilizers, along with necessary trace minerals such as magnesium, and are vital for producing large fruits such as melons. Botanically speaking, the melon is a fruit, but some kinds are often considered vegetables. Plant growth and chlorophyll production depend on nitrogen, and phosphorus helping these plants grow and cope with stress while aiding in energy production.
WATER
While melon plants are growing, blooming, and setting fruit, they need 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Keep soil moist, but not waterlogged. Well drained soil, and ample evenly-spaced drip set at the roots will produce the healthiest plants and contribute to an adequate yield. Avoid above-ground sprayers, or spraying leaves with the hose, as Melon foliage has a tendency toward mildew. Hand water at the vine's base in the morning if desired or needed, and try to avoid wetting the leaves. Reduce watering once fruit are growing.
LIGHT
Identify a sunny spot where they’ll be planted outdoors. These require at least 6-8 hours of direct sun per day for decent production. If they get less full sun, you'll have to wait longer for a full crop and they may be more susceptible to pests. The more light you have, the faster they'll mature and the healthier their immune system will be.
