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Growing Vine Peach Melon in the Vegetable Garden

When planting Vine Peach Melons, sow seeds directly into the soil once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 70 F. These melons need warm soil to germinate and thrive. The sowing depth for the seeds should be about 0.5 inches deep. If starting indoors, plant seeds 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost and transplant them only after hardening off. Before planting, work a balanced fertilizer into the soil.

If sowing outdoors, hill planting is a recommended method. This involves mounding up the soil into small hills (about 12 inches in diameter and a few inches tall) and sowing 4-6 seeds per hill. After germination, thin the seedlings to the 2-3 strongest plants per hill. This method allows for improved drainage, which melons prefer, and helps to warm the soil more quickly. Each hill should be spaced about 6 feet apart. If you're planting in rows, maintain about 24 inches between plants and 6 feet between rows. Adequate spacing is essential to prevent overcrowding and to allow the vines to sprawl or be trellised.

Once plants begin to flower, switch to a fertilizer higher in potassium and phosphorus to promote fruit development. Side-dress the plants with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer midway through the growing season. In cases where pollinator activity is low, you may need to hand-pollinate the flowers. Use a small paintbrush or cotton swab to transfer pollen from the male flowers (those with thin stems) to the female ones (with small fruits at the base).

Water Vine Peach Melons consistently, aiming for about 1-2 inches per week. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and avoid fungal diseases. For growing in containers, use a container with at least 5 gallons of soil and be sure to not skimp on water and fertilizer. Plant only one plant per 24 inches of container space.

Harvesting Vine Peach Melon

You’ll know the melon is ready to harvest when the part of the vine that connects to the melon begins to die back or separate completely. The melon will also give off a sweet scent when ripe. To harvest, gently twist or pull the melon from the vine. Avoid tugging too hard, as this can damage the vine. Use sharp pruning shears if the melon does not easily detach. Harvest in the morning.

About Vine Peach Melon Garden Seeds

Their exact origins are somewhat unclear, but they are thought to have been grown in North America by Native American tribes before becoming popular in European and American homestead gardens during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

These melons were prized for their versatility in cooking and preserving, especially before the advent of modern refrigeration.

This variety was very popular in Victorian times for making sweet pickles pies and preserves.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Vine Peach is one of the most unique melons available. It is often used in completely different ways than other melons. The mild-tasting flesh takes on the flavors of marinades and brines wonderfully while retaining its delicious, crisp texture."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer