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Growing Piel de Sapo Melon in the Vegetable Garden

Piel de Sapo melons can be direct-sown or started indoors before transplanting. For direct sowing, plant seeds at a depth of about 0.5 inch, spacing them 24 inches apart within rows that are spaced 6 feet apart to allow for the sprawling vines. If starting indoors, sow seeds 4 weeks before the last frost date, using biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance. Once seedlings have developed 2-3 sets of true leaves, they must be hardened off before transplanting outdoors, exposing them gradually to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.

Melons need to be planted into well-draining, fertile soil that recieves at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. When growing in hills, plant 3-4 seeds per hill, and thin them to the strongest two seedlings once they’re established. Water deeply but infrequently, aiming for around 1-2 inches of water per week. Melons need consistent moisture during germination and early growth, but watering can be reduced during fruit maturation to enhance sweetness. Fertilizing is important, especially with nitrogen-rich fertilizer in the early stages for vine growth and a phosphorus/potassium-based fertilizer once flowers appear.

Harvesting Piel de Sapo Melon

The key indicator of ripeness is the skin color changing from a deep green to lighter green with a yellow tinge, along with the appearance of sugar spots (small, rough patches) on the rind. The blossom end should feel slightly soft when pressed, and the fruit should emit a faint melon aroma. To harvest, use clean shears or a sharp knife to cut the melon from the vine, leaving about 1-2 inches of the stem attached to the fruit to extend its shelf life. Handle with care, as melons can bruise easily.

About Piel de Sapo Melon Garden Seeds

Piel de Sapo melons originated in Spain. They were bred for their excellent sweetness and long storage life. Their thick, mottled green skin resembles that of a toad, which is where their name, "Piel de Sapo" (Spanish for "toad skin"), comes from.

Their firm texture also makes them ideal for summer fruit platters, and they are often used in culinary dishes where their sweetness complements savory flavors.

This unique melon will impress with its white, crisp flesh and sweet flavor. It is perfect for families and specialty melon growers.

Many gardeners who grow Piel de Sapo suggest planting them in situ (directly in the garden bed versus starting them ahead of time indoors) if you have the growing season for it. They like the extra time to get established in their environment.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Planting garden plants too close together can be tempting. You think you'll have more productivity in less space, right? Until some powdery mildew or aphids ravage your garden in one swoop. The spacing guidelines provided by seed companies exist to allow the plants to have enough airflow and space to thrive. Following them is in your best interest!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer