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Growing Valencia Late Melon in the Vegetable Garden

Valencia Late is a true winter melon that needs a long, warm season. In most climates, direct sow outdoors after all danger of frost when soil has warmed to at least 70 F. Sow 3-4 seeds per hill, 0.5-1 inch deep, spacing hills 3-4 feet apart in rows 5-6 feet apart. Thin to the strongest 1-2 plants per hill once seedlings are established.

In short-season areas, start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before transplanting, using biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance. Harden off seedlings and transplant after nights stay reliably above 55 F. Choose a sunny site with fertile, well-drained soil; work in compost or aged manure before planting. Mulch between rows to conserve moisture and keep fruit clean, and consider using black plastic or row covers early in the season to boost soil warmth.

Harvesting of Valencia Late Melon

Valencia Late ripens later than many melons and is usually harvested just before the first fall frost. Fruits are mature when the rind is fully dark green, the skin loses surface gloss, and the blossom end slightly softens. Unlike muskmelons, winter melons may not slip from the vine on their own; cut fruits with a short stem attached.

Handle fruit carefully to avoid bruising and cure in a warm, dry place for about a week, then move to a cool, well-ventilated area for longer storage.

About Valencia Late Melon Garden Seeds

Also known as Valencia Winter Melon, this heirloom dates back to at least the early 1800s and is connected to melons grown at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Compact vines set coconut-shaped, dark green fruits with light green, sweet flesh prized for its keeping quality.

Valencia Late is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to extend melon season into fall and early winter. Stored properly, fruits can keep for months, offering fragrant, refreshing slices long after other melons are gone. Its heat tolerance and storage ability make it a distinctive specialty crop for home gardens and small farms.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Give Valencia Late the warmest, sunniest spot you have and plant early enough to beat your first frost. Hills on raised beds or mounded rows help soils warm quickly and drain well, which is key for strong vines and flavorful storage fruit."

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Valencia Late Melon Seeds Per Package:

• 3 g Packet - Approximately 90 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Bulk - Approximately 210 Seeds
• 1 oz - Bulk - Approximately 840 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk - Approximately 3,360 Seeds
• 1 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 13,440 Seeds
• 5 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 67,200 Seeds

Non-GMO Valencia Late Melon seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.