Honeydew Melon

Honeydew Melon is a sweet and juicy fruit belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes cantaloupes, cucumbers, and watermelons. They are known for their smooth, creamy, light green flesh and pale yellow to white rind.

Starting Honeydew Melon Plants

Honeydew melons are typically started from seeds, either indoors or directly in the garden.

Indoor Seed Starting

Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date in your area.

1. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in seed-starting trays filled with a well-draining potting mix.
2. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature between 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal germination.
3. Seedlings will emerge in 5-10 days.
4. Transplant seedlings to the garden after the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C).

Direct Sowing

Sow seeds directly in the garden 1-2 weeks after the last frost date, when soil temperatures have reached at least 60°F (15°C).

1. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 12 inches apart in hills or rows spaced 4-6 feet apart.
2. Thin seedlings to 2-3 plants per hill when they have developed several true leaves.

Harvesting Honeydew Melons

• Honeydew melons are typically ready for harvest 80-120 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
• Ripe honeydew melons will have a slight give when pressed at the blossom end, a subtle sweet aroma, and a creamy yellow to golden color on the rind.
• Harvest honeydew melons by cutting the stem with a sharp knife, leaving a short stub attached to the fruit.
• Honeydew melon plants will continue to produce fruit until the first frost or until the vines decline.

Harvesting Honeydew Melon Seeds

Allow a few fully ripe honeydew melons to remain on the vine for an additional 1-2 weeks past the normal harvest stage.

1. Cut open the overripe melons and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
2. Place the seeds and pulp in a jar of water and allow them to ferment for 2-3 days to remove the seed coat.
3. Rinse the seeds thoroughly and spread them on a paper towel to dry for several days.
4. Store the dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for future planting.

Commonly Grown Honeydew Melon Varieties

• Green Flesh Honeydew
• White Honeydew
• Honey Pearl
• Earlidew

Uses as Food

Honeydew melons are a refreshing and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in various ways.

• Slice and eat fresh as a snack or breakfast item
• Use in fruit salads, smoothies, or sorbets
• Wrap prosciutto or other cured meats around honeydew melon wedges for an appetizer
• Dice and add to salsas or salads for a sweet and savory combination
• Blend with lime juice and mint for a refreshing summer drink
• Honeydew melons are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.