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Growing Banana Melon in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Banana Melons, you should start by sowing seeds about 0.5 to 1 inch deep in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. If direct sowing, wait until after the last frost when the soil has warmed to at least 70 F. For indoor seed starting, begin 2-4 weeks before the last frost date, and harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. Plant Banana Melons in hills, with 3-4 seeds per hill, spaced 24 inches apart in rows 6 feet apart. Thin the seedlings to the strongest plant per hill once they’ve developed a few sets of leaves. The vines grow extensively, so ensure they have space to spread, or consider using a trellis to support the sprawling vines.

Ensure consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Drip irrigation or a soaker hose is ideal to prevent wetting the leaves, which can reduce the risk of mildew. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer at planting and again when the vines start to run is beneficial. As a heavy feeder, this melon benefits from adding compost or well-rotted manure at planting. Companion plants like corn, beans, and sunflowers can provide some windbreak or pest-repellent properties, but avoid planting melons near potatoes as they may compete for nutrients.

Pollination is crucial for fruit development, as Banana Melons rely on insect pollination. If growing in a greenhouse or under poor pollinating conditions, you may need to hand-pollinate by transferring pollen from male to female flowers using a small brush. Pruning is not usually necessary, but you can prune excessive vines if space is limited or if air circulation needs improvement. If vines are trained vertically, secure them to the trellis and support the growing fruits with slings to avoid strain on the vines.

Harvesting Banana Melon

Banana Melons are ready to harvest when the skin turns yellow and the fruit gives off a strong, sweet aroma. The melons should easily slip from the vine when ripe. To harvest, gently twist the melon from the vine or cut it with pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Avoid overhandling the melons, as they can bruise easily. Store the melons in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for longer storage.

About Banana Melon Garden Seeds

The Banana melon originated in the United States in the late 1900s. It was bred for its unique appearance, delicious flavor, and intense fragrance. While it looks similar to a banana, the flavor is more similar to that of other melons, with a more tropical tone.

Banana Melons offer hydration, vitamins like A and C, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious, low-calorie fruit.

These melons are typically enjoyed fresh in fruit salads, desserts, or snacks.

Banana Melons can be grown in large containers, but they need ample space for their vining habit. A trellis or support may be helpful. Use containers with at least 10-15 gallons of soil.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"My grandmother has a friend who claims banana melons are the best she has ever tasted. However, when my grandmother went to grow them, she waited one day too late to harvest them, and they all got eaten up by groundhogs and squirrels. Protect your bounty! Even the wildlife know their value."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer