Planting Conditions for Cantaloupe Starts

Cantaloupes grown from starts produce fruit earlier than when grown from seeds.

Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo) is a warm-season crop common in home gardens. Cantaloupes are low in fat and a good source of vitamins A and C. Planting cantaloupe in the garden from starts produces fruit two to four weeks earlier than from seeds.

Location

This crop needs good-draining soil in a sunny location. Cantaloupes prefer sandy soil with plenty of organic material. Mix in a 2-inch layer of compost into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil before planting. Cantaloupe starts require much room to grow. They are planted 6 to 8 feet apart and 28 to 24 inches between rows.

Time Frame

Plant cantaloupe starts after the last spring frost and the soil has warmed up around 60 to 65 degrees. By this time, the air temperature is in the range of 65 to 75 degrees.

Soil pH

Cantaloupes grow well in acidic soil with a pH level in the 6.0 to 6.5 range. The starts produce yellow leaves and few flowers when planted in soil with a pH less than 6.0.

References

• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Cantaloupe & Honeydew Melons
• University of Minnesota Extension: Growing Melons (Cantaloupe, Watermelon, Honeydew) in Minnesota Home Gardens
• Utah State University Cooperative Extension: Cantaloupe (Muskmelon) in the Garden