Melons 'Vanilla Ice' (Melons)

In regions with a long hot summer direct seed after danger of frost is over when soil is at least 70F. Seeds should be sown 6 seeds to a mound ½ inch (1 cm) deep with the mounds spaced 4 to 6 feet (1.25 to 1.8 m) apart. Thin to 2 or 3 plants per mound. If using rows plant seeds in 5 foot (1.5m) rows 12 inches (30 cm) apart or closer if trellising. Trellising acts to increase air circulation and thus reduces diseases. If your season is shorter then sow seeds indoors ¼ inch (5 mm) deep in peat pots (at least 2 inch square - 5 cm), transplant while plants have only 1 or 2 true leaves, about 2 to 4 weeks. Transplant with the same spacing as direct seeded plants. Melons have sensitive roots so thinning should be by cutting to avoid disrupting the soil. Fabric row covers can be used to protect tender young plants but must be removed when flowers appear to allow pollination. Mulch well to prevent weeds and ameliorate water loss as constant moisture is needed until pollination has occurred. Once fruit has set and reached the size of a tennis ball water should be reduced allowing soil to dry out between waterings and only applied when leaves wilt. Fruits should be placed on pieces of pot or wood to prevent damage by insects. A sling made of fabric or netting - pantyhose works well, should be used to fruit as they get heavy. In windy areas with large planted crops leave a band of rye cover crop every second or third row at right angles to the prevailing wind for protection. Rotate melons in a two year cycle to reduce disease and insect build up. Don't include other cucumber family members in this rotation.