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Growing Edisto 47 Cantaloupe Melon in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Edisto 47 cantaloupe, sow the seeds directly into the soil once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 70 F. Sow seeds at a depth of about 0.5 inches deep. If starting indoors, do so 2-4 weeks before the last frost date, but make sure to transplant carefully to avoid disturbing the roots. Space the seeds 24 inches apart in rows 4-6 feet apart to allow the sprawling vines plenty of room. If you are short on space, Edisto 47 can be trellised, but ensure you provide enough support for the heavy fruits. If using a trellis, you can reduce plant spacing to about 12-18 inches apart. For raised beds, you may need to provide extra space around the edges for vines to trail over.

Before planting, mix in well-rotted compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage. Cantaloupes are heavy feeders, so an additional application of balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) is recommended at planting and again when vines begin to flower. Water the plants regularly, providing 1-2 inches per week, especially during dry periods. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Harvesting Edisto 47 Cantaloupe Melon

You can tell they are ripe when the skin turns from green to a light tan or golden color, and the netting on the skin becomes more pronounced. The fruit will also develop a sweet aroma; the stem should separate easily from the fruit when gently tugging. Ripe melons may also feel slightly soft at the blossom end.

To harvest, simply grasp the melon and gently twist it off the vine. If it doesn’t come off easily, it may need a few more days to ripen. Avoid pulling or yanking on the fruit, which could damage the vine. Harvest melons early in the morning when they are cool for the best flavor. They will keep well for several weeks after being harvested.

About Edisto 47 Cantaloupe Melon Garden Seeds

Edisto 47 was developed at Clemson University in South Carolina in 1965 as an improved version of the original "Edisto" cantaloupe. It was specifically bred to resist diseases like downy mildew, powdery mildew, and fusarium wilt, common problems in hot, humid growing regions.

Edisto 47 melons are primarily grown for fresh consumption due to their sweet and juicy flesh. They are perfect for enjoying raw in fruit salads, as a snack, or in desserts. Some people also blend them into smoothies or use them in chilled soups.

Edisto 47 is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, which support immune function and skin health. It is also a good source of fiber and has high water content, making it a hydrating, low-calorie snack.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"When growing cantaloupe, keeping the fruits from touching the earth is important. You can do this by trellising and supporting them with a cloth tie or sling. Or, if your plants are sprawling, use thick mulch or a piece of cardboard placed underneath the fruit to keep it elevated. "

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer