Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF

Growing Extravagant Hybrid Melon in the Vegetable Garden

To begin, the Extravagant Hybrid melon seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.5 inches into well-draining soil. You can start the seeds indoors about 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost date or direct sow them outside after the danger of frost has passed and when the soil has warmed to at least 70 F. If direct sowing, space the seeds about 24 inches apart in rows that are spaced 4-6 feet apart, as the vines need plenty of room to spread. Good companion plants for melons include corn, marigolds, and radishes. Corn can provide some wind protection, while marigolds help deter pests like nematodes, and radishes can help prevent squash beetles.

If you started your seeds indoors, harden them off before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a period of about 7-10 days. Start by placing them outside for a few hours a day and slowly increase the exposure to full sun.

Melons require consistent, deep watering, especially during flowering and fruit development. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, watering deeply about 1 to 2 inches per week. Be cautious of overhead watering as it can encourage mildew. Drip irrigation is ideal to prevent water from sitting on the leaves. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth. Once the plants are established and start to flower, you can switch to a fertilizer that’s higher in potassium and phosphorus to promote fruiting. Avoid too much nitrogen after the initial growth phase, as this can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of fruit development.

Harvesting Extravagant Hybrid Melon

You’ll know the melons are ready to harvest when the rind turns creamy yellow, and the fruit easily separates from the vine with a slight tug. Additionally, the fruit should have a strong, sweet aroma. The skin may also develop a slightly waxy feel, and the stem will start to crack or slip easily from the fruit. Harvest the melon by gently twisting it off the vine or using garden shears to cut the stem close to the fruit. Avoid pulling the fruit. Store melons in a cool, dry place, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

About Extravagant Hybrid Melon Garden Seeds

The Extravagant Hybrid melon is a relatively new variety, bred specifically for its exceptional sweetness, disease resistance, and high yields. It is the result of a hybrid cross between a honeydew and a cantaloupe and possesses the best attributes of both.

Like other melons, Extravagant Hybrid is low in calories but rich in vitamins and nutrients. It is particularly high in vitamin C and vitamin B6.

What makes this melon truly special is its superior taste and firm, crisp texture, setting it apart from traditional melons like cantaloupes or honeydew. It’s ideal for fresh consumption, whether eaten on its own, sliced into salads, or blended into smoothies.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"The pursuit of the perfect melon is quickly becoming mainstream. It is already popular in French, Korean, and Japanese culture, but the rest of the world is soon to follow."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer