Cantaloupe Production Tips

Seedling Production – Seeds should be sown in speeding trays and are ready for transplanting into the field at 10 to 14 days after sowing. When trays are used, the seedlings should be watered weekly with soluble fertilizer. Seeds can also be sown directly in the field and covered with cups until germination.

Soil and Land Preparation – The land should be harrowed to a medium fine tilth. It should be weed free and clean. Seedlings can be transplanted flat or on ridges (banks).

Planting and Weed control –Seedlings are ready for transplanting at about 2 weeks after sowing. A spacing of 4ft by 3 ft. is recommended. If after land preparation or after transplanting young weeds begin growing, Gramaxone can be sprayed for control. The plants should first be covered to avoid herbicide drift. Fusilade or Nabu can be used for control of grass weeds.

Fertilizer– Apply NPK at one week after transplanting giving about 1 oz. per plant (200-300 lbs.\acre). At initial fruit set, a side dressing or sulphate of ammonia at 1 oz. per plant (200-300 lbs\acre) can be applied. 

Mulching – Plants should be mulched with plant material e.g. guinea grass after NPK application. Plastic mulch can also be applied before transplanting.

Insect and Disease Control

Melon Worm              New Mectin   5ml\4gal; Decis 5ml \gal; Karate 3 ml \ gal

White Flies                 Actara 2.5 g\ gal; Attack 3-5 ml\gal 

Aphids                          Decis 3ml\gal; karate 3 ml\gal

Gummy stem Blight       Mankocide or Python at 1 – 2 tsp. \gal

Downy mildew

Harvesting