Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis

Cantaloupe is a cultivar of the muskmelon, a member of the Cucurbitaceae (gourd) family. Like its parent, it is a warm-season annual vine that produces large fruit. The parent plant is probably native to Asia, although it has been in cultivation for so long that its native habitat is lost in time. The genus name Cucumis is the Latin word for cucumber.

Cantaloupe needs full sun and well-drained, loose, moist, soils high in organic matter. Cantaloupe vines will grow in clay, but will likely need organic amendments to thrive. Consistent soil moisture and warm, sunny conditions are essential for this frost-tender plant. Plant seeds outdoors after the last spring frost or start the seeds indoors in pots or other containers about four to six weeks prior to the last spring frost date. Pick fruit when young (older melons toughen as they mature).

These vines produce large, sweet, juicy fruit whose average weight is 3 pounds, but can range from 1 to 11 pounds. The ripe melons have a sweet, musky scent.

Cantaloupe plants are long, trailing vines that are typically supported by cages or trellises. If there is enough space, though, they can be allowed to trail along the ground. They need a lot of space and are typically grown in an edible or cottage garden. With proper support they work well as a vertical planting.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Members of the Cucurbit family are subject to many insect pests and diseases, including cucumber beetles and wilt caused by cold weather stress.  

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common cucumis diseases as well as a factsheet on common insect pests and other problems.

VIDEO Created by Homegrown featuring Penny Perkins-Veazie, Professor and Postharvest Physiologist at NC State's Plants for Human Health Institute

More information on Cucumis melo.