Skip to main content
← All plants

Melon

Cucumis melo
Also known as: Muskmelon, Cantaloupe, Honeydew, Sweet Melon

Melon is a fruit in the Cucurbitaceae family. It grows best in full sun with medium moisture, and is listed for USDA zones 4-13. Plants reach harvest about 55–127 days after planting.

Varieties

69 from True Leaf Market, High Mowing & Seeds Now · sorted by days to maturity
  • Dae Jang Geum Hybrid55–75 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Powdery Mildew (Race1); Necrotic Spot Virus

    65 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. makuwa. Dae Jang Geum Korean Hybrid Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, hybrid, heat tolerant, drought tolerant, Asian Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Powdery Mildew (Race1) and Necrotic Spot Virus. The Dae Jang Geum melon is oval-shaped, typically weighing over 1.5 pounds. It boasts a golden yellow skin with distinct white sutures. The flesh inside is white, offering a crisp bite and a remarkably sweet taste, with a Brix rating of 17, indicating high sugar content. It's commonly referred to as the Korean melon or Chamoe in Korea. Expect a mild, subtly sweet, and floral flavor with nuances reminiscent of banana, cantaloupe, cucumber, and honeydew.~2,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Hakucho Hybrid55–75 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    65 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis. Charantais Hakucho Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, hybrid, heat-tolerant Asian Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Also known as Charantais or Charentais melon, makuwauri, meron. The flesh of this French Charantais melon from Japan is yellow to orange in color. The fruit is aromatic, sweet, and just over 1 pound. The oval-shaped fruit has yellowish-gray skin with no netting. The sugar content is 16 percent brix. Excellent fresh, in fruit salads, as a dessert melon, or wrapped with prosciutto. Its unique flavor profile makes it sought after by gourmet home gardeners and specialty growers. ~2,800 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Ichiba Kouji Hybrid55–60 days

    Hybrid; Fruit; Annual

    55-60 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Ichiba Kouji Japanese Hybrid Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, hybrid, heat tolerant, drought tolerant, Asian Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This specialty variety dominates the netted melon market in Japan. The fruit is round, green-skinned, with a fine net, and matures to over 3 lbs. The thick, juicy, green flesh measures over 16 Brix. Its sugar content will continue to rise regardless of the weather. This vigorous hybrid variety is hardier than other similar non-hybrid types.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Gallo Hybrid59–81 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    70 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Gallo Galia Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant Mini Galia Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This thin-rinded, small seed cavity melon is ideal for patios and trellises. The vines can grow up to 8 feet, but the melons are globe-shaped and only 4 inches in diameter, weighing 1.75-2.3 pounds at maturity. Also known as a Sarda or Tropical Melon, this variety originated in Israel and has sweet, juicy flesh. With only 70 days to maturity, gardeners in a variety of growing zones can appreciate the delicate sweetness of these outstanding melons. .

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Oshiro Uri Numane (Clearance)59–81 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Annual

    72% Germination - Non-refundable clearance seeds. 70 Days to maturity. Oshiro Uri Numane Pickling Melon Seeds. The Numane melon is a delicious traditional Japanese pickling melon. It grows as a vining plant, with the vines getting as long as 10 feet. Its fruits are light green and elongated, reaching up to 12 inches. It looks very much like a light green, thick cucumber. The melons get lighter in color as they mature. These clearance Oshiro Uri Numane Pickling Melon seeds are 4% below germination standards. Approx. 1,400 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • First Kiss F160–82 days

    HMOS EXCLUSIVE; Loy's Choice™; 1-2 lb

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt (2); Powdery Mildew (1&2)

    Taste-test winning, early melon with firm, sweet flesh. Our earliest melons with a beautiful, netted rind and impressive disease resistance. The melons are full slip, which allows for easy ripeness detection. Bred by Dr. Brent Loy at the University of New Hampshire, this variety is the perfect partner to True Love F1, which is slightly later and larger, extending the melon harvesting season. A portion of sales is paid to the breeder. Unavailable in 2024

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplants; add 10-14 days if direct seeding. Melons are warm-season tender annuals that require fertile soils with lots of organic matter, moisture and full sun. Direct seed 1-2 weeks after last frost date or sow seed indoors 4 weeks before planting date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-85°F. Harden off by reducing temperature and water. Plant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed. Plastic mulch and floating row cover are useful in cool climates. Harvesting melons can be tricky. In general: Muskmelons slip from the vine; Charentais can be cut at half or full slip; Galias slip from the vine and turn bright yellow. Ripe melons usually keep up to four weeks in cold storage.

    View on High Mowing
  • Vine Peach60–90 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    60-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Vine Peach Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Also known as a mango melon or a garden lemon, this fascinating melon species is believed to have been cultivated by Native Americans before being brought to Europe and then spread to gardens worldwide. They were especially popular in the 19th century for preserves and pickles due to their mild flavor and firm texture. The fruits are about the size of a peach with yellow skin and pale yellow flesh that takes on other flavors very well. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Divergent F163–85 days

    Widely adaptable; 2.5-3 lbs

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt (0, 1, 2) · IR: Cotton Aphid; Powdery Mildew (1, 2, 5)

    Divergent F1 rarely diverges from delicious. This stunning melon that’s part cantaloupe and part galia is reliably sweet, with a Brix range of 15-18°. Vigorous and quick to mature, Divergent F1 ripens well ahead of much of its size class with strong yields of medium, round fruit. The outside appearance is more of a galia, with a low netting and almost no rib. Watch closely so as not to miss the harvest; it ripens uniformly and is ready when background color is half green and half gold. Plant successions to extend the season. From Vitalis Organic Seeds.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplants; add 10-14 days if direct seeding. Melons are warm-season tender annuals that require fertile soils with lots of organic matter, moisture and full sun. Direct seed 1-2 weeks after last frost date or sow seed indoors 4 weeks before planting date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-85°F. Harden off by reducing temperature and water. Plant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed. Plastic mulch and floating row cover are useful in cool climates. Harvesting melons can be tricky. In general: Muskmelons slip from the vine; Charentais can be cut at half or full slip; Galias slip from the vine and turn bright yellow. Ripe melons usually keep up to four weeks in cold storage.

    View on High Mowing
  • Athena Hybrid64–86 days

    Hybrid; Non-GMO; Fruit; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt (Race 0,1,2); Powdery Mildew (Race 1,2); Scab

    75 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Athena Hybrid Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, hybrid, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Fusarium Wilt (Race 0,1,2), Powdery Mildew (Race 1,2), and Scab. The Athena Hybrid variety of cantaloupe is a large melon with a sweet taste. Athena Hybrid is the number one best-selling cantaloupe in America. These seeds do best with full sun in zones three to nine. Rich, sandy soil is preferable. Athena is an early-maturing eastern melon in a class of its own, asked for by name from gardeners to growers. Athena has consistently delivered at the top for flesh color, flavor, aroma, firmness, and shelf life after harvest. Athena may be used in some areas as a specialty melon with superior high flavor. Oval melons are 5 to 6 pounds with thick, firm, orange flesh and coarse netting with minor sutures. Pick Athena at full slip for the best quality and flavor. ~1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Golden Delicious64–86 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Powdery Mildew; Fusarium Wilt

    75 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis. Golden Delicious Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, heirloom, open-pollinated, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Powdery Mildew (PM) and Fusarium Wilt (FW). This melon was developed at Cornell University in the 1950s: a strong yielding, early ripening melon with numerous fruits weighing between 2 and 4 pounds each. With a thin skin and small seed cavity, the Golden Delicious offers more deep orange flesh than many other cantaloupes. These melons are highly aromatic and have a sweeter flavor than many cantaloupes- a great choice for home gardens. Golden Delicious is our top choice for growing in cooler climates. This variety is sometimes referred to as Golden Cantaloupe or Golden Melon.~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • PMR Delicious 5164–86 days

    Eastern type; 2-3 lbs

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt (1); Powdery Mildew

    Reliably early melon, ripening quickly for heavy yields of aromatic fruit. Juicy, perfectly sweet flesh is dark orange with creamy texture and strong flavor. Thinner skin than hybrids but holds well for market and in storage. Excellent resistance to powdery mildew and well adapted for northern growers. Harvest at full slip. Bred by Dr. Henry Munger at Cornell University. A portion of sales is paid to the breeder.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplants; add 10-14 days if direct seeding. Melons are warm-season tender annuals that require fertile soils with lots of organic matter, moisture and full sun. Direct seed 1-2 weeks after last frost date or sow seed indoors 4 weeks before planting date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-85°F. Harden off by reducing temperature and water. Plant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed. Plastic mulch and floating row cover are useful in cool climates. Harvesting melons can be tricky. In general: Muskmelons slip from the vine; Charentais can be cut at half or full slip; Galias slip from the vine and turn bright yellow. Ripe melons usually keep up to four weeks in cold storage.

    View on High Mowing
  • Early Silver Line65–87 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    76 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Early Silver Line Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Asian Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The Early Silver Line Melon is admired for its striking look: bright yellow skin accented with white or pale green longitudinal stripes. Inside, the flesh is creamy-white, crisp, and fragrant. The plant is very productive and produces 2-pound fruits. Grow this variety for some delicious melon throughout the season. It can also be called chamoe, Korean melon, or Oriental melon.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Imperial 4565–85 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; AAS Winner; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Powdery Mildew · IR: Powdery Mildew

    65-85 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Imperial 45 Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, AAS winner, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Moderately resistant to Powdery Mildew. The Imperial 45 variety of cantaloupe grows into hardy vines that produce large melons with a classic light golden coloring. Their flesh is sweet and delicious. Also known as Hale’s Best No. 45 and Imperial 45 Shipper, this is your basic and classic Southern California market melon. ~1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Minnesota Midget65–70 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt (Race 0)

    65-70 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. reticulatus. Minnesota Midget Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Fusarium Wilt (Race 0). The Minnesota Midget variety of cantaloupe is a small melon with a sweet taste. These miniature melons have flesh in a light golden shade, similar to a classic cantaloupe. The vine produces melons that reach maturity in sixty-five to seventy days. This variety does best when grown in the summer in an area with full sun, in zones three to nine, and it thrives in rich, sandy soil. ~1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • True Love F165–87 days

    Loy's Choice™; 2-3 lb

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt (2); Powdery Mildew (1&2)

    High-sugar melon with near-perfect texture designed to complement its sister variety, First Kiss F1. A testament to our trials process, this melon is the perfect complement to First Kiss F1 as it is full slip, slightly later and larger, and can be planted as a second succession for continual melon harvest. The aromatic sweetness of this melon evokes the feelings of true love, and this show stopping cultivar comes to us from Dr. Brent Loy at the University of New Hampshire. A portion of the sales of this variety is paid to the breeder. First Kiss F1 True Love F1 Divergent F1

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplants; add 10-14 days if direct seeding. Melons are warm-season tender annuals that require fertile soils with lots of organic matter, moisture and full sun. Direct seed 1-2 weeks after last frost date or sow seed indoors 4 weeks before planting date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-85°F. Harden off by reducing temperature and water. Plant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed. Plastic mulch and floating row cover are useful in cool climates. Harvesting melons can be tricky. In general: Muskmelons slip from the vine; Charentais can be cut at half or full slip; Galias slip from the vine and turn bright yellow. Ripe melons usually keep up to four weeks in cold storage.

    View on High Mowing
  • Tuscany66–90 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual; heat-tolerant

    78 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Tuscany Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The Tuscany Cantaloupe variety is a delicious melon from Italy bursting with flavor and aroma. The thick flesh and small seed cavity make for an easy-to-cut fruit. It has salmon-colored fruits with brown husks that weigh 2-3 pounds at maturity. The husks are sutured and finely netted with striped outer skins. Tuscany is an excellent market seller with undeniable curb appeal. The dense melons have good storage capacity and high vitamin C and A content. In Italy, this type of melon may simply be referred to as “Melone di Toscana.” ~980 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Earli-Dew Hybrid68–92 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt

    80 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Earli Dew Hybrid Honeydew Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat tolerant, Honeydew Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Fusarium wilt. As one of our earliest maturing Honeydew varieties, Earli-Dew is a favorite in northern climates. Many professionals including Utah State University Extension and the Master Gardeners of Greene County (Missouri) recommend this variety for it's short days to maturity, delicious taste, and high fungal disease resistance. The melons are 6-8 inches round and weigh around 7 pounds. The vines produce plentiful fruits with smooth skin and sweet green flesh. ~1,060 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Hale's Best 45 PMR68–90 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Powdery Mildew

    68-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Hale's Best 45 PMR Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant, drought-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Powdery Mildew. Hale's Best is a delicious variety that contains coarse netting with a light rib. Its flesh is salmon in color and has a good flavor. Hales Best 45 PMR is drought-resistant and does well even with less watering. The fruit is 6 inches by 5 inches in diameter and weighs 4 pounds. The flesh is lovely and aromatic, with a rich, classic cantaloupe flavor. It's perfect for summer salads, smoothies, desserts, or fresh eating right off the rind. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Collective Farm Woman71–95 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    83 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Collective Farm Woman Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This amazing melon comes from Ukraine, where fast-ripening melons are important in cool conditions. A Seed Savers Exchange member first offered this melon in 1993 after a trip to the Island of Krim in the Black Sea. Collective Farm Woman has a yellow-gold rind with extra sweet white flesh. Melons grow 7-10 inches in size. Collective Farm Woman ripens early, as you would expect from a cool-weather melon. Harvest when the skin turns orange-yellow. Stores well for several weeks after harvest. ~644 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Ambrosia Hybrid72–98 days

    Hybrid; Non-GMO; Fruit; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Downy Mildew; Powdery Mildew

    85 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Ambrosia Hybrid Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, hybrid, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Downy Mildew and Powdery Mildew. The Ambrosia cantaloupe is a large melon with a deliciously sweet flavor. The cine produces melons that have thick, peach-colored flesh with a surprisingly small seed cavity. The six-inch melons will grow best in full sun with rich, sandy soil. Ambrosia hybrid melons were bred in the U.S. as an improvement upon traditional cantaloupes, developed for better flavor and disease resistance. Ambrosia is specifically recommended by Utah State University and is favored by gardeners in that community.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Ball 2076 Hybrid72–98 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt; Powdery Mildew

    85 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Ball 2076 Hybrid Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, hybrid, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Fusarium Wilt and Powdery Mildew. The Ball 2076 Hybrid variety of cantaloupe is a large melon with a sweet taste. The vine produces melons that reach maturity in eighty-five days. These seeds do best with full sun in zones three to nine. Rich, sandy soil is preferable. This is the improved version of Ball 1776. Ball Seed considers this their best-tasting melon. Very sweet. Heavily netted. Good performer in all areas.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Edisto 4772–98 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Powdery Mildew; Downy Mildew; Alternaria Leaf Spot

    85 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Edisto 47 Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant, humidity-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew, and Alternaria Leaf Spot. The Edisto 47 variety grows melons weighing 3-5 pounds with juicy and sweet salmon-colored flesh. The vines are incredibly vigorous, with large leaves. Good shipper. The Edisto 47 cantaloupe melon is an excellent summer crop that thrives in the heat and full sun. It is highly favored in the southeastern United States as it tolerates the climate well. ~1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Planters Jumbo72–98 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    The Planters Jumbo melon produces a very sweet and delicious fruit that matures to about 5lbs - Thick and protective rind - Orange flesh - Extremely juicy - Has a pretty small seed cavity - Tolerant of heat and drought - Can also tolerate heavy rainfall - Excellent source of vitamin C Days to Maturity | 85 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Iroquois75–90 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt

    75-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Iroquois Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Fusarium Wilt. These melons ship and store well. Iroquois melons are easy to grow at home. Their skin is thick, deeply ribbed, and heavily netted with a gray-green color. The flesh is deep salmon colored. Melons grow to be 7 inches by 6 inches and weigh 5-7 lbs. One of the primary reasons for growing this variety is its outstanding sweetness and rich cantaloupe flavor. This is a great choice if you enjoy melons with a strong, musky, and sweet taste. ~1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Banana76–104 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    Produces excellent yields of 18" long yellow melons. - The orange flesh is extremely tender and juicy - Has a banana flavor Days to Maturity | 90 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Charentais76–104 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. inodorus. Charentais Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This incredibly unique melon is unlike any cantaloupe or honeydew you’ve ever tried. The intense aroma is intoxicating and a dead giveaway in the garden. When ripe, the skin turns yellow, and the melon slips easily off the vine. This gourmet fruit will keep you eagerly checking the vegetable patch for more each season! You won’t find this 2-3 pound variety in any grocery store or specialty fruit shops, as they do not ship well.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Charentais (Organic)76–104 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Vegetable; Annual

    90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. inodorus. Organic Charentais Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This incredibly unique melon is unlike any cantaloupe or honeydew you’ve ever tried. The intense aroma is intoxicating and a dead giveaway in the garden. When ripe, the skin turns yellow, and the melon slips easily off the vine. This gourmet fruit will keep you eagerly checking the vegetable patch for more each season! You won’t find this 2-3 pound variety in any grocery store or specialty fruit shops, as they do not ship well. ~1000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Glamorous Hybrid76–104 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Glamorous Hybrid Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant Galia Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The Glamorous Hybrid Melon is a hybrid cantaloupe known for its sweet flavor, vibrant appearance, and reliable growth. The flavor of the melon is often described as succulent and refreshing, with a delicate balance of sweetness and a hint of floral notes. Known for producing large, 3-5 pound melons with light green to white flesh and netted skin, the flesh pairs perfectly with cured meats and aged cheeses for a delightfully balanced culinary combination. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Glamorous Hybrid (Organic)76–104 days

    Organic; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Organic Glamorous Hybrid Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, organic, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant Galia Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The Glamorous Hybrid Melon is a hybrid cantaloupe known for its sweet flavor, vibrant appearance, and reliable growth. The flavor of the melon is often described as succulent and refreshing, with a delicate balance of sweetness and a hint of floral notes. Known for producing large, 3-5 pound melons with light green to white flesh and netted skin, the flesh pairs perfectly with cured meats and aged cheeses for a delightfully balanced culinary combination. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Rocky Ford Green Flesh76–102 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Rusts

    89 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Rocky Ford Green Flesh Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Rusts. Rocky Ford Green Flesh Cantaloupes are a unique variety of melon with deeply ribbed rinds covered in heavy netting. They grow dark green until they ripen when they turn into a yellow-ish tan color. The flesh is pale and medium green. They do remarkably well in hot and humid climates such as in the American South. They have a flavor unlike any other melon that is sweet, creamy, and spicy. The fruits mature at 2-3 pounds and about 5.5 by 4.5 inches.~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Sharlyn76–104 days

    Heirloom; Fruit; Annual

    90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Sharlyn Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat tolerant, drought tolerant, specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. These specialty oval-shaped melons are about the size of a typical cantaloupe and have sweet, tender flesh. The creamy fruit is mild in flavor but delicious. They are sometimes referred to as Sharlyn Cantaloupes or Sharlyn Muskmelons due to their musky aroma and cantaloupe-like texture. Sharlyn Melons are believed to have originated from the Middle East. These unique specialty melons are perfect for shorter growing seasons and have a harvest window of up to one week! ~980 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Sierra Gold (Organic)76–104 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Powdery Mildew

    90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Organic Sierra Gold Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, organic, open-pollinated, heat-tolerant cantaloupe. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Powdery Mildew. The Sierra Gold Cantaloupe has quickly become a garden favorite. Its salmon-colored flesh and small seed cavity make it appealing to see and delicious to taste! The taste is described as “excellent” by the Garden Seed Inventory, which also mentions having a well-netted husk with distinct indistinct ribs. It is said to be one of the sweetest cantaloupe varieties on the market. 1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Valencia Early76–104 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Valencia Early Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Known for its early maturity (compared to similar melons) and ability to store well for as much as 4 months without losing flavor and texture, this one-of-a-kind melon is perfect for short growing seasons and those who like to store their harvest to eat throughout the winter. Also known as a winter melon, the Valencia Melon can be found in seed catalogs in North America as far back as the early 1800s. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Golden Honeymoon78–106 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    92 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Golden Honeymoon Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Honeydew Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to sunburn. This smaller honeydew melon is ripe two weeks earlier than regular Honeydew varieties. Golden Honeymoon melons are a rare heirloom variety known for their exceptional flavor and smooth texture. Unlike green-fleshed honeydews, the flesh inside this melon is a creamy white to pale green. They are a stunning addition to any garden, producing beautiful golden fruits that are a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Canary Yellow80–120 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    80-120 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Canary Yellow Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This winter melon is ideal for growers who want to store a delicious melon to enjoy a few weeks later. They can be stored for several weeks without losing their flavor or texture. Canary Melons have a vibrant yellow, smooth rind that stands out in the garden or on the shelf, giving it the nickname “Juan Canary.” They originated in the Middle East and are popular in countries like Spain, Turkey, and Asia. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Eindor80–90 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    80-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. reticulatus. Eindor Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Also known as a Ein Dor, Israel or Ha'Ogen Melon, this unique variety has heavily netted skin with a golden background. The flesh is pale green and has an incredible floral, tropical, banana flavor. The small seed cavity on this 2-4 pound fruit leaves more room for the flesh on the inside. It is a type of Ananas (Pineapple) melon. A lover of hot, long summers, Eindor melons are worth well worth the wait! ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Haogen80–85 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    80-85 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Haogen Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This unique heirloom cantaloupe is flavorful and yields many fruits. The name "haogen" means "the anchor" in Hebrew. The fruits mature at 3-5 pounds with smooth skin and green flesh. This delicious treat will be a favorite at any summer gathering. It is often featured at BBQs and picnics for everyone to enjoy. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Hearts of Gold80–90 days

    Heirloom / Open Pollinated; Vegetable; Annual; Non-GMO

    Resistance: HR: Blight

    80-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Blight. Also known as “Hoodoo,” the Hearts of Gold cantaloupe is a fantastic choice for midwestern gardeners. The sweet, deep orange flesh is incredibly aromatic and firm. The seed cavity is small, leaving more room for fruit! The round melons mature at 5-6 inches in diameter and 3-5 pounds. The husk is heavily netted with medium ribs. The plant is quite vigorous and very productive. A good choice for short-distance shipping. ~1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Hearts of Gold (Organic)80–90 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Blight

    80-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Organic Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Blight. Also known as “Hoodoo,” the Hearts of Gold cantaloupe is a fantastic choice for midwestern organic gardeners. The sweet, deep orange flesh is incredibly aromatic and firm. The seed cavity is small, leaving more room for fruit! The round melons mature at 5-6 inches in diameter and 3-5 pounds. The husk is heavily netted with medium ribs. The plant is quite vigorous and very productive. A good choice for short-distance shipping. ~1,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Top Mark80–90 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Downy Mildew; Powdery Mildew; Cucumber Beetles; Scab

    80-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis. Top Mark Melon Vegetable Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, cantaloupe melon. Resistant to Downy Mildew, Powdery Mildew, Cucumber Beetles, is scab resistant, and sulphur tolerant. Gardeners love the Top Mark Melon for its robust flavor and ease of growth. Top Mark Melons are prized for their exceptionally sweet, juicy, and aromatic orange flesh, making them a delightful summer treat. It has 7-inch 3-4 lb fruits that are slightly oblong, well-netted, slight ribs, thick, and firm with sweet salmon colored flesh. Top Mark Melon has a small seed cavity leaving room for more juicy sweet melon. ~1,240 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Bidwell81–109 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    C. indorus (95 days) This melon originated just a few minutes away from us here in Chico, CA. Bidwell is named after John Bidwell, who was a general in the Civil War and struck it rich in the California Gold Rush. Bidwell later founded the town of Chico, where he planted the original seed stock from the Department of Agriculture on his estate. After many years of selection, the Bidwell Casaba was born.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Amarillo Oro85–115 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    The Amarillo Oro plant produces good yields of large 15 lb. golden yellow oblong melons. A pre-1870 heirloom variety from Europe - White flesh with sweet flavor - Grows well in the winter - Suitable for home gardens and market growers Days to Maturity | 90 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Aspire Hybrid85–115 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Aspire Hybrid Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant French Charentais Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. These personal-sized (2lb) melons are extra sweet. This variety is ideal for home gardens and is even small enough that they are a good choice for container gardens. Many consider this to be one of the best melons ever developed because of its sugar content and delightful texture. While it is not explicitly resistant to specific diseases, it generally shows great vigor and will produce plentiful melons if cultivated well. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Bodacious Hybrid85–115 days

    Vegetable; Non-GMO; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Bodacious Hybrid Honeydew Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant Honeydew Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This ivory-skinned honeydew has classic green flesh that is sweet and firm. The vines are vigorous, and the leaves are large, which prevents the sunburn of the fruits. The Bodacious Hybrid Honeydew stands out due to its exceptional sweetness, early maturity, and uniform size. It is highly sought after because of its smooth, creamy texture and excellent shelf life. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Branco Do Ribatejo85–115 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Branco Do Ribatejo Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The Branco Do Ribatejo Melons mature into oval, striped melons with white husks. They weigh around 6-8 pounds and contain delicious and aromatic greenish-white flesh. This melon is Portugal's national favorite. It is sometimes called "Ribatejo melon" after the Ribatejo region of Portugal, where it originated. It has intensely sweet, flavorful, and juicy flesh and excellent storage qualities, making it ideal for shipping, market growers, and home gardeners who want to extend their harvest. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Extravagant Hybrid85–115 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Fusarium Wilt (Race 2)

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Extravagant Hybrid Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant honeydew cantaloupe Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Fusarium Wilt (Race 2). The Extravagant Hybrid melon is a hybrid variety that combines characteristics of both cantaloupe and honeydew melons. It features a cream-colored rind with minimal netting and boasts thick, crisp orange flesh that delivers a sweet flavor. These melons are known for their vigorous growth and disease resistance, making them a popular choice among gardeners. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Fabulous Hybrid85–115 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Fabulous Hybrid Honeydew Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant Honeydew Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The vigorous, disease-resistant vines of the Fabulous Hybrid plant produce perfectly oval, pale green honeydew fruit with bright green flesh. This variety is relatively early maturing for a honeydew. The vines can be staked or trellised to save garden space. The firm, sweet flesh has a remarkably high sugar content and holds well to storing and shipping. It's a low-maintenance yet rewarding option for melon lovers. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Green Flesh85–100 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    This is a delicious melon with a sweet green flesh - Produces large 6 1/2 x 6" melons and weighs about 5 lbs Days to Maturity | 85-100 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Hales Best Jumbo85–100 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors; Super easy to grow

    The Hales Best Jumbo is a cantaloupe that yields large, oval, ribbed fruits weighing up to 5 to 6 pounds - Traditional favorite - Heavy netting and fine textured with a bright orange flesh - Holds a sweet flavor longer than most - Drought tolerant variety that thrives in warm temps - Excellent source of vitamin C. Days to Maturity | 85-100 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Heart of Gold85–100 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    Heart of Gold Melon (100% Heirloom/Non-Hybrid/Non-GMO) The Heart of Gold melon produces a very sweet and delicious golden flesh fruit that grow up to 4 lbs! Day to Maturity | 85-100 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Honey Rock85–100 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    The Honey rock melon produces a very sweet and delicious Cantaloupe fruit that matures to six 6" in diameter - Excellent source of vitamin C Days to Maturity | 85-100 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Late Valencia85–115 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    100 days. Cucumis melo var. inodorus. Valencia Late Melon Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, heirloom, open-pollinated. This crop is suitable for garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Late Valencia is a winter melon that produces dark-green melons with pale-green flesh that sweetens further in storage. Valencia Melons are said to be a close relative of melons grown by Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. ~840 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Marvelous Hybrid85–115 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Crenshaw Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant Marvelous Hybrid Crenshaw Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Melon Marvelous Hybrid is a hybrid Crenshaw with exceptional yield. These colorful specialty melons have thick salmon flesh and dark green rinds. It is known as the perfect winter storage melon. The vigorous vines protect the fruit from sunburn. This variety stands out for being a heavy producer, making it great for home gardeners who want a reliable yield. The hybrid status also means it's bred for improved vigor and fruit uniformity compared to traditional Crenshaw varieties. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Orange Flesh Honeydew85–100 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    This is a delicious melon with a sweet orange flesh Days to Maturity | 85-100 days Melon Seeds | Because of the long growing season, start plants indoors 4 to 5 weeks before outdoor planting time. Direct sow 4-5 seeds in a hill and then thin to the appropriate spacing. Click here for complete Melon grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Sakata's Sweet85–90 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual; Non-GMO

    Resistance: HR: Powdery Mildew; Fusarium Wilt

    85-90 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Sakata's Sweet Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Asian Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Powdery Mildew and Fusarium Wilt. Sakata's Sweet Melon is a highly regarded variety, often praised for its rich sweetness and beautiful flavor. Oval to Round 10-12 oz. Large baseball-sized melons that are pale white-green skin that ripens to a yellow-green. Soft, light, barely green flesh is highly aromatic. Skin and flesh combined are smooth. Will not slip, can trellis. Variety is a good keeper that has been grown in the East for centuries and is now appearing in American markets. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Sungold85–110 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    85-110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Sungold Casaba Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant, drought-tolerant, Casaba Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This variety is known for its heat tolerance and drought resistance, making it ideal for regions with hot summers. Its unique mild sweetness and creamy flesh make it stand out from the more commonly grown cantaloupes and honeydews. It is also a good option for growers looking for something different in their melon patch. This shorter vine plant has impressive yields of sweet melons. The flesh is tender and delicious. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Sungold (Organic)85–110 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Vegetable; Annual; heat-tolerant; drought-tolerant

    85-110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Organic Sungold Casaba Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant, drought-tolerant, Casaba Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This variety is known for its heat tolerance and drought resistance, making it ideal for regions with hot summers. Its unique mild sweetness and creamy flesh make it stand out from the more commonly grown cantaloupes and honeydews. It is also a good option for growers looking for something different in their melon patch. This shorter vine plant has impressive yields of sweet melons. The flesh is tender and delicious. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Tam Dew85–115 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual; open-pollinated; heat tolerant

    Resistance: HR: Downy Mildew; Powdery Mildew

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Tam Dew Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat tolerant, Honeydew Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Downy and Powdery Mildew. This variety of honeydew matures at about 5 pounds with gorgeous green flesh and ivory skin. Tam Dew is a great shipper that can store for multiple weeks after harvest. The Texas Cooaperative Extension at Texas A&M recommends this variety specifically for growing in Texas. Tam Dew Melons are a fantastic variety, especially for those who love sweet, juicy, and fragrant honeydew melons. ~980 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Tremendous Hybrid85–115 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Tremendous Hybrid Casaba Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant, Casaba Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Tremendous Hybrid Casaba Melon will be one of the largest melons you will ever grow! The fruit can weigh up to 8 pounds or more and the vines can extend 8-10 feet if left to their own devices. This hybrid variety does not sacrifice size for flavor, either. The orange flesh is thick and incredibly sweet. A long season is required in order to harvest, but they are worth the wait! ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Whimsy F185–115 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. inodorus. Whimsy Hybrid Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, F1 hybrid, heat-tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. A type of Spanish Piel de Sapo melon, this special hybrid is as gorgeous on the outside as delicious on the inside. The crisp white flesh pairs well with sweet and savory foods, making it a culinary powerhouse. The vigorous vines promise an abundant harvest, and the stunning fruit will excite each bite! It can also be called a Christmas melon. ~900 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • White Crenshaw85–115 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    100 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. White Crenshaw Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant White Crenshaw Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The White Crenshaw Melon is renowned for its delicious flavor, creamy texture, and large size. This heirloom variety is often prized for its distinct characteristics and is favored by many gardeners for its sweetness and suitability for various culinary uses. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Schoon's Hardshell (Organic)88–95 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Cracking; Fantastic For Storing Or Shipping

    88-95 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Schoon's Hardshell Organic Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. This hard-shelled melon is resistant to cracking and fantastic for storing or shipping. The thick rind allows it to stand well in the field or market without impacting the flavor or texture. It is slow to ripen, but it has salmon-orange flesh with an intensely delicious flavor when ready. The gray-green skin has coarse gray-yellow netting. Schoon's Hardshell melon is an heirloom from New York state. ~1,100 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Ananas90–110 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    90-110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Ananas Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Originating from France, these sweet, juicy, and soft melons are easy to grow at home and produce well. The yellow-orange rinds have netting, and the delicate flesh turns from white to yellow when it matures. The melons mature at 4.5-5.5 pounds. The Ananas melon is highly prized for its unique and exotic flavor. Its pineapple-like taste is not found in any other melon. This melon has been cultivated for centuries, originally in areas around Turkey, and it is still grown today for its aromatic sweetness.~1200 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Piel de Sapo90–110 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    90-110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Piel de Sapo Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat tolerant, drought tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots and raised beds. Piel de Sapo, also known as Toad Skin Melon, Christmas Melon, or Santa Clause Melon, is a highly valued variety of melon originating from Spain. The name "Piel de Sapo" translates to "toad skin" in Spanish, a reference to the melon's rough, mottled green skin resembling the texture of a toad. This variety is popular for its distinct appearance and sweet, flavorful flesh. This Spanish heirloom is prized for its taste and storability. ~675 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Crenshaw93–127 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Crenshaw Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Crenshaw Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The Crenshaw melon is a cross between the cantaloupe and casaba melons that has since become open-pollinated and achieved heirloom status. The Crenshaw melon has a sweet and unique flavor. This melon is softer than many other types and weighs around six pounds. They are perfect for anyone who enjoys fresh, homegrown produce and wants to try growing something a bit more exotic. Crenshaws are well-suited for warm climates and can be a rewarding challenge for more experienced gardeners. Plus, they have a longer shelf life than other melons, making them easier to store and enjoy.~750 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Crenshaw (Organic)93–127 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Vegetable; Annual; heat-tolerant

    110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Organic Crenshaw Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Crenshaw Melon. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. The Crenshaw melon is a cross between the cantaloupe and casaba melons that has since become open-pollinated and achieved heirloom status. This melon is softer than many other types and weighs around six pounds. They are perfect for anyone who enjoys fresh, homegrown produce and wants to try growing something a bit more exotic. Crenshaws are well-suited for warm climates and can be a rewarding challenge for more experienced gardeners. Plus, they have a longer shelf life than other melons, making them easier to store and enjoy. ~750 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Golden Beauty93–127 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Golden Beauty Casaba Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant, Casaba Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots and raised beds. Golden Beauty Casaba is notable for its distinctive bright golden rind, which makes it stand out from other melons. Unlike its relatives, such as honeydew and cantaloupe, Casaba melons have a unique blend of mild sweetness with a hint of spiciness. Its thicker, golden-colored skin makes it more resistant to bruising, contributing to a longer shelf life. Also known as Golden Casaba. ~# seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Tendral Verde Tardif93–127 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    110 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo var. inodorus. Valencia Late Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant specialty Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Also known as the Valencia Winter Melon, this true heirloom variety dates back to at least the early 1800s and is said to have been grown by or be closely related to a variety that Thomas Jefferson grew at Monticello in Virginia. The dark green husk encapsulates delicious light green flesh. It ripens later than other melons, and so is typically harvested just before the first frost. Valencia Late is perfect for fall and winter food storage as the flavor and sweetness are enhanced by storage. ~840 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • New Melon110–120 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    110-120 Days to maturity. Cucumis melo. Japanese New Melon Seeds. A non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, heat-tolerant Asian Melon. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Developed in the 1950s for its fragrance and sweet-tasting fruit, the New Melon has smooth green skin and white to pale yellow flesh. Each plant produces roughly 4-8 melons. Japanese breeders developed this melon to create a uniform fruit that delivers consistently excellent quality in terms of flavor and appearance. It's the result of Japan's strong emphasis on fruit perfection, which makes this melon stand out as a gourmet variety. New Melons have a delicate sweetness and smooth, tender flesh that sets them apart from typical Western melons, which tend to have more robust, musky flavors. ~2,800 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
Family
Cucurbitaceae
Category
Fruit
Form
Vine
Lifecycle
annual
Zone
4-13
Height
0.5–1.5 ft
Spread
4–6 ft
Sun
Full sun
Water
Medium

Plan your melon planting

Add melon to a free GardenDraft plan and get sow, transplant, and harvest dates computed for your ZIP code — with a drag-and-drop bed layout and reminders when it’s time to plant.

Start your free plan →

At a glance

Days to harvest
55–127 days
From transplant or sow to first harvest
Harvest style
Keep picking
Crops over several weeks
After harvest
Use within days
Quality eases off after peak
Frost tolerance
Warm-season · to ~45°F
Lowest temperature the foliage usually survives
Germination
~75%
Typical minimum germination rate

Storing & preserving

Refrigerate ripe fruit; ripen firm fruit at room temperature.

  • Freeze: Freezes well raw; spread on a tray first so pieces stay loose.
  • Preserve: Make jam or water-bath can high-acid fruit.
  • Dry: Dehydrate or air-dry, then store airtight away from light.

General home-preservation guidance — for tested processing times and safety, follow the National Center for Home Food Preservation.

Growing timeline

When to plant and harvest melonPlanting timeline for melon, relative to last frost: start indoors from 2 weeks before last frost to 2 weeks after last frost; grow from 2 weeks after last frost to 10 weeks after last frost; harvest from 10 weeks after last frost to 20 weeks after last frost.Start indoorsGrowHarvestLast frostTransplant
Start melon indoors ~4 weeks before transplanting 2 weeks after last frost; first harvest 10 weeks after last frost.
Seed to transplant
21-28 days
Outdoor planting
14 to 21 days vs frost
Propagation
Seed
Schedule anchor
Last Frost

Companion planting — with cited sources

From US/Canada cooperative-extension publications and peer-reviewed studies. Evidence-tier dots show how strongly each recommendation is backed: ●●● peer-reviewed mechanism · ●● extension consensus · traditional knowledge with a plausible mechanism.

Pairs well with (1)

  • Common BeanEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation

    Bush bean intercrop contributes modest residual N and ground cover during melon establishment. Documented in several extension home-garden guides as a workable polyculture, with the caveat that beans must not over-shade young melon vines.

    Source: University of Maryland Extension

Avoid planting near (1)

  • Common CucumberEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host, alternate-host-pest

    Shared cucurbit pest/disease complex (downy mildew, bacterial wilt vectored by cucumber beetle). Avoid co-planting different cucurbits in the same bed.

    Source: S1, S7

Trap crops for this plant (2)

  • Blue Hubbard SquashEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismtrap-crop

    Perimeter Blue Hubbard intercepts a documented 65-90% of cucumber beetles and squash bugs in muskmelon and cantaloupe production trials (UVM, USDA-ARS), reducing the need for foliar insecticide across the cash melon field.

    Timing: Plant trap 1-2 weeks before cash crop.

    Region: Northeast, mid-Atlantic, Midwest.

    Source: University of Vermont Extension, USDA ARS

  • Common RadishEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionstrap-crop, pest-deter

    Interplanted radish reduces striped cucumber beetle feeding pressure on melon vines in early growth, documented in SARE and Agriculture Canada research.

    Timing: Sow radish at melon transplant.

    Source: SARE, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Sources cited

S1
Cornell University Cooperative Extension — vegetable production guides
S14
University of Vermont Extension
S18
SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education)
S20
USDA ARS (Agricultural Research Service) publications
S25
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
S7
University of Minnesota Extension
S9
University of Maryland Extension — Home & Garden Info Center

Care & troubleshooting— extension-sourced, with citations

When to feed, prune & water

Attract beneficial insects and protect pollinators

Protection
  • Routine carePlant insectary flowers and tolerate light pestsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Grow a diversity of flowering plants (including small-flowered umbels and asters) to feed predators and parasitoids, and tolerate low pest numbers so natural enemies have prey to stick around.

    Source: UC IPM; UMN Extension

  • Routine careNever spray open bloomsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid insecticides on flowering plants and apply any needed sprays in the evening when pollinators aren't active, and favor selective products over broad-spectrum ones to spare bees and beneficials.

    Source: UC IPM

Mulch and water the squash family

Watering
  • Routine careDeep weekly watering· every 1 wk · ~12 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Cucurbits are thirsty and shallow-rooted. Water deeply about weekly (more in heat), at the base to keep foliage dry and slow mildew.

    Source: UC ANR

  • Routine careMulch to hold moisturemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Lay straw or leaf mulch once established to even out soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep fruit off bare soil.

    Source: UC ANR

Plan crop rotation

Rotation
  • Routine careRotate plant families between bedsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid planting the same family in the same bed in consecutive years (aim for a 3+ year gap), grouping crops by family so soilborne diseases and pests that build up don't carry over to the next susceptible crop.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • Routine careSequence for soil healthmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Follow heavy feeders like tomatoes and brassicas with legumes or a cover crop to support soil fertility and structure, and keep simple notes each year so you can track where each family grew.

    Source: UMN Extension

Protect the garden from deer

Protection
  • Routine careFence the gardenstrong evidence — extension confidence

    A fence about 8 feet tall and tight to the ground is the most reliable barrier; an outward-angled or double fence, or monofilament line strung at 30 to 36 inches, can also deter deer on smaller beds.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell CCE

  • Routine careRotate repellents as a supplement· every 2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Where fencing isn't feasible, apply odor/taste repellents and alternate formulations, reapplying every couple of weeks and after rain; combining repellents with fencing works best.

    Source: UMN Extension; PennState Extension

Water deeply at fruiting

Watering
  • Routine careProvide steady deep watering during fruiting· every 3 daysstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Once plants begin flowering and setting fruit, supply about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week in deep soakings rather than light sprinkles, ideally at the base; even moisture reduces cracking, blossom-end rot, and bitter or misshapen fruit.

    Source: UMN Extension: Tomato disorders; UMN Extension: Growing tomatoes

Clean up debris and sanitize at season end

Sanitation

Unusual this time of year.

  • Routine careRemove spent plants and fallen debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Pull and clear old plants, dropped fruit, and leaf litter at season end, since many pests and diseases overwinter in this debris; dispose of diseased material rather than composting it.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • Routine careClean tools, stakes, and cagesmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Wash and sanitize stakes, cages, and tools that touched diseased plants before storing or reusing them to avoid carrying pathogens into next season.

    Source: Cornell; UMN Extension

Cutworm collars at transplant

Protection

Unusual this time of year.

  • Routine careSet a collar around each new transplantstrong evidence — extension confidence

    When setting out transplants, slip a collar (a toilet-paper tube, paper cup with the bottom cut out, or similar) around each stem and press it a couple inches into the soil so it stands a few inches above ground, blocking cutworms from the stem.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

Floating row cover timing

Protection

Unusual this time of year.

Harden off seedlings

Protection

Unusual this time of year.

Read: starting seeds indoors

Trellis vining crops

Support

Unusual this time of year.

Something looks wrong?

Describe what you see on your melonand we'll rank the likely causes — most likely first, least-invasive fix first.

Cucurbit bacterial wilt

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: sudden wilting of individual leaves then whole vines; wilt with no yellowing at first; plants collapse despite moist soil; cut stem oozes sticky sap that strings out; cucumber beetles present

Fusarium Wilt (Melon)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: one-sided yellowing and wilting of runners; gradual vine collapse near fruiting; brown streaking in stem vascular tissue; plants dying as fruit matures

  • CulturalPlant resistant cultivars and rotate long-termstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Grow Fusarium-resistant muskmelon/melon cultivars and rotate many years away from melon, since the soilborne fungus survives 5-10+ years; there is no rescue treatment for infected plants.

    Source: UC IPM; Clemson Extension

  • CulturalDelay planting until soil warmsmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Transplant only after soil has warmed and avoid plant stress, since cool soils and stress increase wilt severity.

    Source: Clemson Extension

Gummy Stem Blight / Black Rot (Cucurbits)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: water-soaked stem cankers; amber gummy ooze on stems; tan-to-dark circular leaf lesions with concentric rings; black speck-like fruiting bodies; black rot of fruit

  • CulturalRotate, sanitize, and use clean seedstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Use disease-free seed and rotate at least 2 years away from cucurbits, removing and destroying infected vines and fruit since the fungus survives in debris and seed. This is a prevention/management problem, not a cure.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell LIHREC

  • CulturalKeep foliage drystrong evidence — extension confidence

    Switch to drip irrigation and space plants for airflow so leaves dry quickly, since free moisture drives infection.

    Source: UMN Extension; UF/IFAS

Phytophthora blight (root and crown rot)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: sudden wilting and collapse of peppers or squash; dark water-soaked lesions at the crown or stem base; white cottony growth on infected fruit; root and crown rot; vine and fruit rot after heavy rain or in wet low spots

  • CulturalRemove affected plants at first sign (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    Infected plants can't be saved; promptly pull and destroy them at the start of an outbreak to slow spread, and avoid working in beds when wet.

    Source: Cornell Vegetables; UMN Extension

  • CulturalImprove drainage and avoid waterloggingstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Plant on raised beds, never let beds stay saturated, and water with drip rather than flooding, since this water mold thrives in standing water and saturated soil.

    Source: Cornell Vegetables; UMN Extension

  • CulturalRotate and choose tolerant varietiesmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Rotate out of peppers, cucurbits, and tomatoes for at least three years where the disease has occurred, and select tolerant or resistant varieties when available.

    Source: Cornell Vegetables

Phytophthora Fruit & Crown Rot (Cucurbits)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: sudden wilt and crown collapse; soft water-soaked rot at the crown; large tan-to-salmon soft spots on fruit; white yeast-like mold on rotting fruit; plants dying in wet low spots

  • CulturalImprove drainage and avoid waterloggingstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Plant on raised, well-drained beds, avoid low wet spots, and lengthen intervals between irrigations, since this water mold thrives in saturated soil. Once established it is very hard to control, so prevention is key.

    Source: UC IPM; Clemson Extension

  • CulturalRotate and avoid infested fieldsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid sites with a Phytophthora history and rotate to non-host crops (avoid cucurbits, peppers, tomato, eggplant), since the oospores survive in soil for years.

    Source: Clemson Extension; OSU Extension

  • ChemicalApply oomycete-targeted fungicide preventively· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    As part of an integrated program, apply an oomycete-active fungicide (e.g., mefenoxam or phosphonate class) preventively before wet weather, rotating modes of action per the label.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM; MSU Extension

Pickleworm (Southern Cucurbits)

Pestsevere

Symptoms: entry holes in fruit with sawdust-like frass; tunneled squash and cucumber fruit; chewed buds and flowers; caterpillars boring into stems and fruit

  • CulturalPlant early and use trap/less-preferred cropsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    In southern regions plant early to harvest before populations build, prefer less-susceptible types (e.g., butternut), and remove infested fruit promptly, since larvae feed inside the fruit.

    Source: UF/IFAS; LSU AgCenter

  • OrganicTreat early before larvae bore in· every 5 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Scout flowers and apply a Bt (B. thuringiensis kurstaki) product targeting young larvae before they enter fruit, since internal feeders are protected once inside; repeat per the label.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UF/IFAS; UT Extension

  • ChemicalApply insecticide on a tight schedule under heavy pressure· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Where pressure is severe, apply a labeled insecticide (e.g., pyrethroid or spinosyn class) timed to flowering and small larvae, per the label, rotating classes.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UF/IFAS; LSU AgCenter

Root-knot nematodes

Nematodesevere

Symptoms: galls or knots along roots; stunted plants; yellowing and midday wilting that recovers at night; poor vigor despite good care; patchy poor growth in beds

  • CulturalConfirm with a soil test, then rotate (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    Root-knot nematodes can't be eradicated from garden soil, so confirm via a county Extension nematode assay and rotate beds to non-hosts or resistant varieties (look for VFN-type resistance in tomato).

    Source: Clemson HGIC; UF/IFAS

  • CulturalPlant suppressive cover/rotation cropsmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    A solid planting of French marigolds grown 2+ months and turned under, or cover crops such as sorghum-sudangrass or cowpea, can lower populations between susceptible crops.

    Source: UF/IFAS; Clemson HGIC

  • CulturalSanitation and organic mattermoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid moving infested soil on tools or transplants, build soil organic matter to support beneficial organisms, and keep plants well watered to help them tolerate root damage.

    Source: UC IPM; Clemson HGIC

Southern blight

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: sudden wilting in hot weather; yellowing then collapse of whole plant; white fan-like mold mat at the stem base and soil; tan-brown mustard-seed-sized sclerotia near soil line; girdled rotted lower stem

  • CulturalRemove infected plants and surrounding soil (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    Once a plant collapses it can't be cured; dig out the plant plus the top few inches of nearby soil containing sclerotia and dispose of it, avoiding spread on tools.

    Source: Clemson Land-Grant Press; UC IPM

  • CulturalBury residue and rotatemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Deep-turn soil to bury sclerotia, remove crop debris at season end, and rotate susceptible solanaceous and legume crops with grasses for several seasons.

    Source: Clemson Land-Grant Press

  • CulturalAdjust soil pH and plant earlymoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Maintain soil pH at the level recommended for the crop, since the disease is worse in low-pH soils, and time plantings so harvest begins before peak summer heat favors the fungus.

    Source: Clemson Land-Grant Press

Squash vine borer

Pestsevere

Symptoms: a vine suddenly wilts at the height of summer; sawdust-like frass at a hole near the stem base; hollowed stem

  • CulturalRow-cover early; bury nodes for backup rootsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Cover plants until flowering to block the egg-laying moth, then hand-pollinate or uncover. Mounding soil over vine nodes lets the plant re-root past a borer.

    Source: UMN Extension

White mold (Sclerotinia stem rot)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: water-soaked stem or branch lesions; fluffy white cottony mold on stems and pods; sudden wilting of part of a plant; hard black sclerotia inside or on stems; collapse during cool wet bloom periods

  • CulturalRemove infected plants (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    There's no cure for an infected plant; cut out and bag affected plants including the black sclerotia, and don't compost them, since sclerotia survive years in soil.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • CulturalOpen the canopy and rotatestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Space plants widely, control weeds, orient rows to prevailing wind, and avoid overhead watering at bloom to dry the canopy; rotate to non-host crops (corn or other grasses) for several years.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • CulturalWater at the base, not overheadmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Use drip or soaker irrigation to keep foliage and the soil surface drier, which discourages the sclerotia germination and mycelial growth that drive white mold.

    Source: UC IPM

Angular Leaf Spot (Cucurbits, bacterial)

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: small angular water-soaked leaf spots bounded by veins; spots dry and tear leaving holes; milky bacterial ooze on leaf undersides in humidity; water-soaked spots on fruit

  • CulturalUse clean seed, rotate, avoid working wet plantsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Plant certified pathogen-free seed, rotate 2-3 years away from cucurbits, and never cultivate or harvest while foliage is wet, since this bacterial disease spreads in water and on hands and tools. Bacterial diseases are managed, not cured.

    Source: UMN Extension; UF/IFAS

  • CulturalAvoid overhead irrigationstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Use drip irrigation and space plants for rapid drying, since splashing water spreads the bacteria.

    Source: UMN Extension; Univ. of Illinois Extension

  • ChemicalApply copper preventively in warm humid weather· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    During warm, moist periods that favor disease, apply a fixed-copper bactericide preventively to slow spread, per the label; copper suppresses but does not eliminate the bacterium.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UF/IFAS; PNW Handbooks

Anthracnose fruit rot

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: small sunken circular spots on ripening fruit; spots enlarge with darkened concentric centers; soft rot spreading inward; worse on ripe tomatoes and cucurbit fruit in wet weather

Botrytis gray mold

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: fuzzy gray-brown mold on leaves, stems, flowers, or fruit; soft watery rot on fruit and blossoms; dieback from cut or wounded stems; mold spreading in cool humid still conditions; blighted flowers that fail to set

  • CulturalRemove infected tissue and old blossomsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Prune out moldy leaves, stems, and fruit and clear fallen blossoms and debris where the fungus gets started, disposing of them rather than composting.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • CulturalImprove airflow and reduce leaf wetnessstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Space and stake plants for good air movement, water at the base in the morning, and harvest ripe fruit promptly so botrytis has fewer cool, humid, wet surfaces to colonize.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

Cucumber beetle

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: yellow beetles with stripes or spots; chewed leaves and flowers; wilting that follows (bacterial wilt risk)

  • CulturalRow-cover early; clean up debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence

    These beetles also spread bacterial wilt, so block them with netting on young plants and remove garden debris where they overwinter.

    Source: Cornell Vegetable MD Online

  • OrganicLabeled insecticide for heavy pressure - label use only· every 1 wk · ~2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If wilt risk is high, a labeled product applied in the evening protects pollinators. Follow the label.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: Cornell

Damping-off (seedlings)

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: seedlings flop over and collapse at the soil line; thin water-soaked pinched stem base; fungus gnats or constantly wet mix

  • CulturalDry out, ventilate, sow into clean mixstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Use sterile seed-starting mix, bottom-water and let the surface dry between waterings, add airflow, and don't over-sow. Damping-off can't be cured once a seedling collapses.

    Source: UMN Extension: Damping-off

Read: starting seeds indoors

Downy mildew

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: angular yellow patches bounded by leaf veins on top; gray-purple fuzz on the underside; spreads in cool humid weather

  • CulturalSpace, prune, and water at the basestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Improve airflow, remove infected leaves, and keep foliage dry. Resistant cucumber varieties help next season.

    Source: Cornell Vegetable MD Online

  • ChemicalLabeled downy-mildew fungicide - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    In wet seasons a labeled fungicide on a 7-day schedule slows spread. Follow the label.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: Cornell Vegetable MD Online

Iron deficiency (interveinal chlorosis)

Deficiencymoderate

Symptoms: yellowing between veins of youngest leaves while veins stay green; new growth pale or nearly white; bleaching and browning of leaf tips in severe cases; symptoms worst on alkaline high-pH soils; older leaves stay greener than new ones

  • CulturalTest and address soil pHstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Iron is present but unavailable in high-pH soils, so test soil pH and, for the affected bed, lower pH toward the crop's preferred range (especially important for acid-loving blueberries) rather than just adding iron.

    Source: UMN Extension; UF/IFAS

  • OrganicUse chelated iron for a quick correction· every 2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    A foliar spray or soil drench of chelated iron can green up new growth per the label; soil-applied ferrous iron quickly oxidizes and becomes unavailable in high-pH soil, so chelate plus pH management works best.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UF/IFAS

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Mosaic virus

Virusmoderate

Symptoms: mottled light-and-dark green leaf patterns; puckered distorted or fern-like leaves; stunted growth; mottled bumpy fruit; spread by aphids and handling

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Potassium deficiency

Deficiencymoderate

Symptoms: yellowing and browning along older leaf margins; scorched curled leaf edges; weak stems; poor or uneven fruit ripening; symptoms starting on lower, older leaves

  • CulturalConfirm with a soil test firststrong evidence — extension confidence

    Edge scorch on older leaves has several causes, so get a soil test before adding potassium; over-applying can lock out magnesium and calcium.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • OrganicApply potassium per soil-test guidancemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If the test confirms low potassium, apply a potassium source (such as sulfate of potash) at the labeled/test-recommended rate and keep watering even, since drought worsens uptake.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Powdery mildew

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: white powdery coating on upper leaf surfaces; starts as spots then spreads; leaves yellow and dry under the coating

  • CulturalImprove airflow + remove worst leavesstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Cut out the most heavily coated leaves and thin for airflow; avoid wetting foliage late in the day.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicPotassium-bicarbonate or sulfur - label use only· every 1 wk · ~4 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Apply a labeled potassium-bicarbonate or sulfur fungicide weekly per the label. No sulfur within 2 weeks of oil or in high heat.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Root rot from overwatering / poor drainage

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: stunted yellowing plants that wilt despite wet soil; soft brown mushy roots; sloughing root outer layer leaving thread-like core; poor growth in low or compacted wet spots; seedlings collapsing at the soil line

Scab (Cucurbits)

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: small sunken corky spots on fruit; gummy amber ooze from fruit lesions; angular pale leaf spots that drop out; cavities and dark velvety mold on fruit lesions

  • CulturalPlant resistant cultivars and rotatestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Use scab-resistant cucumber cultivars where available and rotate 2-3 years to non-cucurbit crops, removing crop debris to lower spore carryover.

    Source: UMN Extension; UMass Extension

  • CulturalPromote rapid dryingstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Choose well-drained sites with good air movement, avoid overhead irrigation and dense canopies, and avoid handling plants when wet.

    Source: UMass Extension; Cornell

Slugs & snails

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: large ragged holes with smooth edges; slimy silvery trails; damage worst after rain and overnight

  • CulturalTrap, hand-pick at night, reduce cover· every 2 days · ~3 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Pick at night with a flashlight, set shallow beer traps, water in the morning so soil dries by dusk, and clear damp hiding spots.

    Source: UC IPM: Snails and Slugs

  • OrganicIron-phosphate bait - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Scatter a labeled iron-phosphate slug bait sparingly per the label; it's pet- and wildlife-safer than metaldehyde.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Spider mites

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: fine pale stippling/speckling on leaves; fine webbing on undersides in hot dry spells; leaves bronzing and dropping

  • CulturalHose down and raise humidity· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Mites thrive in hot, dry, dusty conditions. Spray foliage (especially undersides) with water to dislodge them and reduce dust.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicInsecticidal soap or horticultural oil - label use only· every 5 days · ~2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Apply to undersides per label; mites resist many products, so soaps/oils are preferred. Not in extreme heat.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Squash bug

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: bronze/gray shield-shaped bugs at the plant base; bronze egg clusters on leaf undersides; wilting runners

  • CulturalCrush eggs, trap adults, hand-pick· every 3 days · ~4 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Scrape off the coppery egg clusters, lay a board by the base and collect bugs under it each morning. Easiest controlled early.

    Source: UMN Extension: Squash Bug

Stink bugs (brown marmorated and native)

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: cloudy or corky spots on fruit; dimpled or pitted fruit; catfacing on tomatoes; shield-shaped brown or green bugs; barrel-shaped egg clusters on leaf undersides

  • CulturalExclude with row cover and clear nearby weedsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Cover susceptible crops with floating row cover before bugs arrive, and remove weeds and groundcover near the garden in early spring where stink bugs feed before moving to crops. Lift covers on flowering crops that need pollination.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM Pest Notes

  • CulturalHand-pick bugs and egg masses· every 3 daysstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Scout in the morning and drop adults, nymphs, and egg clusters into a bucket of soapy water; regular hand-picking keeps low populations in check since most garden insecticides work poorly on adults.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • OrganicSpot-treat young nymphs if numbers climb· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If small nymphs are abundant, a botanical such as pyrethrin or azadirachtin, or insecticidal oil, may give some suppression per the label; adults are largely unaffected, so rely mainly on exclusion and hand-picking.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Thrips on fruiting vegetables

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: silvery or stippled flecking on leaves; black specks of frass; distorted or scarred young leaves and fruit; tiny slender insects in flowers; deformed fruit set

  • CulturalRemove weed and crop reservoirsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Control flowering weeds in and around the garden and remove spent host crops promptly, since thrips build up on these and move onto fruiting vegetables; avoid planting next to onions, garlic, or cereals where thrips numbers spike.

    Source: UC IPM; UF/IFAS

  • CulturalKeep plants vigorous and rinse foliagemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Water and feed adequately so plants tolerate feeding, and a forceful water spray can knock down populations; reflective mulch can also deter thrips from settling on young plants.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicTreat with spinosad or oil if needed· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If thrips are damaging growing points or fruit, spinosad or insecticidal soap/oil can help per the label; rotate modes of action and avoid spraying open blooms to protect pollinators and natural enemies.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM; UF/IFAS

Whiteflies

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: clouds of tiny white insects fly up when plants are disturbed; yellowing stippled leaves; sticky honeydew and black sooty mold; weak stunted growth

  • CulturalRemove infested leaves and hose off· every 4 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Pick off and discard heavily infested lower leaves and rinse colonies off undersides with a strong spray of water; yellow sticky cards help monitor numbers.

    Source: UC IPM: Whiteflies

  • OrganicApply a labeled soap or oil· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Apply a labeled insecticidal soap or neem oil per the label, covering leaf undersides; these reduce but won't eliminate whiteflies, so repeat as needed.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM: Whiteflies

Cutworms

Pestmoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: seedlings cut off at soil line; transplants toppled overnight; wilted clipped plants in a row; chewed stems near ground; gray-brown caterpillars curled in soil

  • CulturalPlace stem collars on transplantsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Push a collar (cardboard tube, can, or cup with bottom removed) a couple inches into the soil around each stem so it extends a few inches above ground; this blocks cutworms from reaching the stem.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

  • CulturalScout soil and hand-remove· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    In the evening or early morning, check the soil around damaged plants and remove curled larvae by hand; tilling beds about two weeks before planting also reduces larvae and pupae.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

  • OrganicApply a labeled Bt or spinosad· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If damage continues, apply a labeled Bacillus thuringiensis (kurstaki) or spinosad product per the label, targeting small larvae; Bt works best on young first- and second-instar cutworms.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM: Cutworms

Phosphorus deficiency

Deficiencymoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: stunted plants with dark dull green leaves; reddish or purplish tint on leaves and undersides; delayed maturity and poor fruiting; symptoms worst in cold spring soils; older leaves affected first

  • CulturalCheck soil test and soil temperaturestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Purpling in cold spring soils is often temporary, since cold roots can't take up phosphorus that's actually present; warm weather usually resolves it, so confirm a true shortage with a soil test before adding phosphorus.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • OrganicAdd phosphorus only if the test calls for itmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If low phosphorus is confirmed, work a phosphorus source into the root zone per the test recommendation, and keep soil pH in range since extreme pH ties up phosphorus.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Aphids

Pestlow

Symptoms: clusters of tiny soft-bodied insects on new growth and undersides; sticky honeydew or sooty mold; curled distorted new leaves; ants tending them

  • CulturalBlast off with water· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Knock colonies off with a strong jet of water in the morning; repeat every few days. Light infestations rarely need more.

    Source: UC IPM: Aphids

  • OrganicInsecticidal soap - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    For persistent colonies apply insecticidal soap to undersides per label. Avoid open flowers.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Edema (oedema)

Disorderlow

Symptoms: small watery blisters or bumps on leaf undersides; corky tan or brown scabby spots on leaves and stems; yellow flecking on upper leaf surface; worse in cool cloudy humid spells; not spreading plant to plant

Magnesium deficiency

Deficiencylow

Symptoms: yellowing between the veins of older leaves; veins stay green (interveinal); common in sandy soils and containers

  • CulturalConfirm with a soil test, then correct· every 2 wks · ~4 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Interveinal yellowing on older leaves suggests magnesium. Confirm with a test; if low, a dilute Epsom-salt foliar spray is a short-term fix while you amend the soil.

    Source: UMN Extension

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Nitrogen deficiency

Deficiencylow

Symptoms: oldest leaves uniformly pale yellow; plant pale and slow overall; common in containers and after heavy rain

  • CulturalFeed with balanced fertilizer· every 2 wks · ~4 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Apply a balanced organic fertilizer or fish emulsion; new growth greens up within ~2 weeks. Don't overcorrect.

    Source: UMass Extension

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Poor cucurbit fruit set

Disorderlow

Symptoms: small fruit yellow, shrivel, and drop off; lots of flowers but little fruit; misshapen lopsided fruit; few bees visiting; worse in heat or cool rainy spells

Transplant shock

Disorderlow

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: wilting or drooping right after transplanting; stalled growth for days after setting out; leaf scorch or edge browning on new transplants; temporary yellowing; recovery once roots establish

  • CulturalWater in well and provide shade· every 1 days · ~1 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Water transplants in thoroughly at planting and keep the root zone evenly moist for the first week or two, and provide temporary shade during hot, sunny, or windy spells to reduce stress while roots establish.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • CulturalHarden off and plant gently next timestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Most plants recover on their own; to prevent recurrence, harden off seedlings before planting, set them out in mild weather or evening, and avoid disturbing the roots when transplanting.

    Source: UMN Extension