65 DAYS
Cucumis melo
This small, early heirloom melon, introduced in Minnesota in 1948, delights with its sweet, orange flesh that's edible right to the rind. The compact, 3-4 ft. vines yield heavily, ensuring that you enjoy plenty of this succulent treat all summer long. When fully ripened, the globe-shaped fruit reaches 6 in. in diameter and weighs around 2 lbs., making it an excellent choice for garden-fresh eating.
Size: Each plant produces 13oz - 2 lb. melons that are 6 in. in diameter, with compact vines growing 3-4 ft. long.
Yield: Good yields are typical from healthy plants setting abundantly.
Taste: Sweet, juicy orange flesh with a refreshing flavour that shines through, perfect for enjoying fresh or in fruit salads.
How to use: Excellent for fresh eating, adding to salads, or as a sweet snack. The flesh can be enjoyed right to the rind.
Planting tips: Start seeds 2-3 weeks ahead of transplanting into the garden. Sow 2-3 seeds in 2 in. peat pots, and keep them warm at 21°C for germination in 7-10 days. Transplant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed with moist peat pots. Melons prefer lighter soils enriched with organic matter for best performance.
Harvest tips: Melons are ready when they feel slightly soft at the blossom end and have a sweet aroma. Cut the fruit from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached.
