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Growing Imperial 45 Cantaloupe Melon in the Vegetable Garden

The Imperial 45 cantaloupe is a sturdy plant that does well when sown indoors and transplanted a few weeks later or sown directly outdoors. These seeds need rich and sandy soil, and it is best if the soil's pH level is between 6.5 and 7.5. They also need an area with full sunlight to thrive fully, so look for this when determining the best area to grow your vines. Sow each seed with the pointed end pointing downwards in a small lump of soil, and cover each one with about half an inch of soil. Keep four to six feet between the rows, spacing plants two to three feet apart within these rows. Water them close to the ground, aiming not to get the vines wet in the process, which can often cause plant diseases.

If sowing directly outdoors, plant the seeds about 0.5 inches deep, spacing each seed 24 inches apart. For those starting seeds indoors, harden off your seedlings before transplanting them outside. This means gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week or two, starting with just a few hours a day in a sheltered spot and then increasing exposure to direct sunlight and outdoor temperatures.

During the growing season, fertilization is key. Melons are heavy feeders, so applying a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) when the vines begin to run and again when the fruit begins to form can help boost production. Some gardeners prune the vines to focus energy on fewer fruits for larger melons.

Harvesting Imperial 45 Cantaloupe Melon

To know when to harvest, look for several key indicators: the rind should change to a tan or buff color with a well-defined netting, and the fruit should slip easily off the vine when gently pulled. You’ll also notice a sweet fragrance, especially around the blossom end of the melon, which signals that it’s fully ripe. You can also cut the melon from the vine, but be careful not to harvest too early as cantaloupes don’t mature much more after harvest.

About Imperial 45 Cantaloupe Melon Garden Seeds

Imperial 45 is one of a few varieties of cantaloupe that have come as a result of I.D. Hale’s plant research and development efforts in the early 1900s. They are all outstanding varieties, especially for growing in California. While it used to be a new variety, it is now considered an heirloom.

This melon variety has remained a staple in gardens due to its reliable growth and high productivity. Its sweetness, rich aroma, and juicy flesh make it a favorite.

Like other cantaloupes, Imperial 45 melons are packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), which is essential for good vision and skin health.

Imperial 45 Cantaloupe won the All-American Selections award for garden merit in 1935.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"When growing cantaloupe, I recommend amending the garden soil with plenty of compost before planting. This will give the seedlings the nutrition boost they need to be hardy and robust and eventually produce some large, delicious melons."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer