Cucamelon
A novel addition for CSA or market stand. This vining plant also known as Mexican Sour Gherkin is a vigorous climber. Like melons Cucamelons should be planted indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost and then transplanted out. They produce plenty of 1” miniature, green striped melon shaped fruit. The crisp fruit has a sweet almost salty flavour great for snacking on, using in salad, stir fries or pickled. Maturity is 65-70 days. Approx. 70 seeds/pkg.
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Details
Growing Information
Planting:
For best results start seed indoors, 4 weeks prior to the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds 1⁄2 inches deep in 21⁄4 inches Jiffy strips. Provide a warm soil temperature (24-27 degrees C) and even moisture. Cucamelons are slow starters, especially compared to cucumbers. They need more time to germinate and can take as long as 3-4 weeks to germinate.
Transplant outdoors after all risk of frost has passed, space plants 6 inches apart in rows 4-6 feet apart. Cucamelons require a bright, warm growing season of about 3 months duration. Row covers or black mulch are highly recommended for extending growing season, to ensure maturity and to increase yield.
Growing:
Full sun and sheltered location with soil pH of 6.0-7.0. As they are heavy feeders, an application of compost or well-rotted manure worked into the planting area will help. Regular applications of a complete soluble fertilizer during the growing season is beneficial. Plants should not be allowed to wilt. Make sure they are well-watered before transplanting.
Harvest:
Keep mature cucamelons picked off the vines to encourage a longer yield.
Pests:
Monitor for Cucumber beetles; use Rotenone to control beetles. Leaf spots and mildew can be controlled using a sulfur or copper fungicide.
Companions:
Corn.