Minnesota Midget Cantaloupe

Minnesota Midget Cantaloupe

65 Days. This exquisite heirloom produces a bounty of early, and true to its name, mini cantaloupes. Fruit measure 4–6 inches across and have deep orange flesh that is succulent, sweet, and delicious down to the rind. The ultimate melon for short-season areas, and the compact plants are ideal for small space or container gardens. 2 to 3 pounds.

Disease Resistant: FW

Open Pollinated. Non-GMO. Heirloom. Organic.

*Approximately 30 Seeds

Harvest: 65-70 Days

Germination: 5-10 Days

Seed Planting Depth: 1/2”

Start Indoors: 3-4 weeks before the last frost date in biodegradable pots

Transplant: 70°F

Light Requirement: Full sun

Soil Needs: Fertile, well-drained soil

Plant Height: 36”

Seed Spacing: 2-3 per mound

Thinning: 1 plant per mound, 1 plant per 20 gallon container

Row Spacing: 36"

Planting Instructions

Cantaloupes need fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Plant seeds 1-1 ½ inches deep. Thin to 1 plant per pot. Plants can be transplanted once they have developed at least four leaves. Wait to transplant until daytime temperatures remain above 70˚ F and nighttime temperatures remain above 65°F. Plants do not tolerate cold temperatures.

Keep plants moist, not wet. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are recommended. Overhead watering increases the risk of fungal diseases. If using overhead watering, water in the early morning so that the leaves have time to dry before cooler nighttime temperatures occur. Supply consistent moisture until the fruit is about the size of a tennis ball. Then, cut back on watering to increase the sweetness of the fruit.

Plants that produce large melons should only be allowed to grow 2-3 fruits per vine. Bush-type plants can produce 2-5 fruits per vine. Harvest when melons slip from the vine and color has brightened. Fruit will be very aromatic, and the webbing will lighten when fully ripe.