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Growing Eindor Melon in the Vegetable Garden

While it is possible to start these seeds indoors 2-4 weeks ahead of the last frost, it is recommended to direct sow them into the garden soil when soil temperatures are consistently above at or 70 F. Before planting, amend the soil with well-aged compost or a balanced organic fertilizer. Sow seeds 0.5 inchs deep in well draining soil 24 inches apart in rows 6 feet apart. Hill planting is also a great option. Plant 2-3 seeds per hill and space the hills 4-6 feet apart. Hill planting promotes better drinage and air circulation.

Once the plants start to flower, use a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen but higher in phosphorus and potassium, as too much nitrogen can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit development. Melons need 1-2 inches of water per week, especially during fruit set and development. Use a soaker hose or water at the base to avoid wetting the leaves, as damp foliage can lead to fungal issues.

Pruning isn't always necessary, but you can trim back excess growth to promote air circulation and focus the plant’s energy on fewer, higher-quality fruits. Pinching back the vine tips can encourage branching. If space is limited, you can train the vines vertically using a trellis, supporting the fruits with slings to prevent them from falling.

In regions with fewer pollinators, you may need to hand-pollinate the flowers. Melons have both male and female flowers on the same plant. The male flowers appear first, followed by female flowers with a small fruit at their base. To hand-pollinate, use a small brush or gently transfer pollen from the male flower to the female flower.

Harvesting Eindor Melon

You’ll know the fruit is ripe when the skin turns from greenish-yellow to bright golden-yellow with distinct green stripes. The melon should easily slip off the vine when gently lifted or twisted. Another sign of ripeness is a sweet, fruity aroma near the stem. To harvest, gently twist the melon until it detaches from the vine, or use garden shears to cut it free, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising.

About Eindor Melon Garden Seeds

The Eindor Melon is often referred to as the Ha’Ogen Melon or Ogen Melon, named after the kibbutz Ha’Ogen in Israel, where it was first cultivated. These melons were developed and refined in the 1950s as part of Israel’s agricultural innovation to create a melon variety that could thrive in the country's hot and arid climate.

Eindor Melons are primarily used fresh. They are excellent in fruit salads, eaten as a snack, or paired with savory foods like prosciutto.

These melons are perfect for the long, hot summers of the southern United States. For growing in the southeast, proper spacing is critical to promote airflower and reduce fungal diseases. For growing in the southwest, regular watering is essencial to achieve maturity.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"When it comes to growing melons, I have found that fertile soil, good airflow, and consistent watering are the three pillars to achieving a good harvest. Lacking just one of these can prevent you from getting melons this summer."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer