Germination Time for Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes, often referred to as muskmelons, are a warm-season crop, like all melons, that thrives during the hottest part of the summer. Cantaloupes and watermelons are often among the last things planted in the home garden. Planting too early -- before the soil warms sufficiently -- can cause seeds to decay before germination. Does this Spark an idea?
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Soil Temperature
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Soil temperature is the key factor in cantaloupe germination. Soil temperature is measured about 2 inches below the surface. Cantaloupe seeds will not germinate below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants will begin to emerge at about 10 days when the soil temperature is 70 F. Germination time improves as soil temperature increases, peaking at about three to five days when the soil temperature is 90 F, according to Cornell University.
Planting Procedures
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Plant the cantaloupe seeds about 1 inch deep. This keeps the seeds near the surface and in the warmest part of the soil, improving the germination rate. Plant a seed about every 6 inches in rows about 8 feet apart. After the plants emerge, thin to the healthiest plants about every foot for irrigated gardens or every 2 feet for drier plantings.
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Keeping Soil Warm
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Place a black plastic mulch over the ground planned for the cantaloupes about two weeks before planting. The black plastic absorbs warmth from the sunshine and increases the soil temperature below. Poke holes through the plastic for the seed or plant placement. In most areas a drip irrigation system is required for cantaloupes grown on black plastic mulch.
Starting Indoors
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Start the cantaloupes in a peat pot in the home or greenhouse about three weeks ahead of the planned planting date. Transplanting the entire pot into the ground is recommended for gardeners or farmers using the black plastic mulch. The germination time of seeds started indoors can be accelerated by increasing the temperature of the growing area to as close to 90 degrees as feasible.
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