Plant seeds 1/2-1" deep into Jiffy Pellets or sterile mix in Jiffy Pots with a soil temperature of 75-80º F. They should germinate in about a week if kept moderately moist. Set plants into the field after the threat of frost has passed. Hot Kaps, row covers or plastic tunnels will provide protection from low temperatures or damaging winds. Plastic Mulch can be used to maintain soil temperatures, retain soil moisture and control weeds in the row. All melons prefer sandy loam soil with a pH 6.0-6.8 and set the best yields when beehives are added to pollinate flowers. Maturity dates are from transplanting and should be used only for variety comparison.
