Growing Cantaloupes in a Container Garden
Cantaloupes and other melons grow surprisingly well in containers. With the right items and conditions, you'll be well on your way to growing this delicious fruit on your own. Does this Spark an idea?
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Variety
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If you have plenty of room for vines and large fruits, feel free to grow full-size cantaloupes. If your space is limited, however, choose the smaller, single-serving variety.
Container
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Plant your cantaloupe seedlings in a self-watering container that can hold at least 1 1/2 cubic feet of soil. Rectangular boxes or pots designed for small trees work well. Cantaloupes like to be grouped together, so put three or four in the same container.
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Soil
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Select a well-draining soil with a pH of 6 to 7. Mix a slow-release fertilizer into the soil to provide nourishment for the plants during their first 6 weeks of growth.
Sun and Warmth
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Place your pots in a warm, sunny location where the plants can get at least 8 hours of direct sunlight. A trellis provides the perfect support for the vines and developing fruit.
Fertilizer
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After the first six weeks, supplement your cantaloupes' growth with compost tea and/or general fertilizer. A 10-10-10 fertilizer works well for most varieties.
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References
- Photo Credit cantaloupe/sugar melon in crystal dish image by Kathy Burns from Fotolia.com
