Sweet Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo) is a warm-season melon known for its soft, juicy flesh and refreshing aroma. These vines produce round to oval fruit with a netted rind and sweet, smooth flavor. Cantaloupe plants grow best in sunny garden spaces with warm temperatures and free-draining soil.
Perfect for summer gardens, home orchards, and raised beds, Sweet Cantaloupe offers excellent harvests when provided with proper spacing, steady watering, and good sunlight exposure. Trellis training can help improve airflow, reduce pests, and keep fruit clean.
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Cucumis melo
- Common Name: Sweet Cantaloupe
- Plant Type: Warm-Season Annual
- Seed Type: Non-GMO
- Sunlight: Full Sun
- Soil Type: Loose, Well-drained, Fertile Soil
- Watering: Moderate; Avoid Overwatering and Wet Leaves
- Germination Time: 7–14 Days
- Days to Harvest: 75–90 Days
- Growth Habit: Spreading or Trellised Vine
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Grown as annual in all zones
- Temperature Requirement: Prefers warm soil and air temperatures
- Container Friendly: Yes, when trellised
- Pollination: Attracts bees and pollinators
Planting Guide
- Direct sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed or start indoors 3–4 weeks early.
- Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in warm, loose soil.
- Water consistently but avoid soaking the soil.
- Provide full sun and strong airflow.
- If using a trellis, secure vines as they grow for better fruit quality.