Extravagant Melon

Start seeds indoors in warm conditions (70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit) 3 to 4 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant seedlings to individual containers once they develop their first true leaves, maintaining warm temperatures throughout.

Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days by exposing them to outdoor conditions incrementally. Transplant to the garden after all frost danger has passed and soil temperatures have warmed to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Space plants 48 inches apart in rows spaced 72 inches apart.

Direct sow seeds outdoors after soil temperatures consistently reach 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and all frost risk has passed. Plant seeds in mounds or hills spaced 48 inches apart with rows 72 inches apart.

Harvest when the melon reaches full maturity at 100 to 109 days after planting. Look for a cream-colored rind that yields slightly to gentle thumb pressure at the blossom end. The melon should slip easily from the vine with a gentle twist; a ripe Extravagant Melon will detach cleanly when ready. Cut melons from the vine rather than pulling to avoid damage.

For container and greenhouse growing, selective pruning of lateral vines encourages vertical growth and improves air circulation around the developing fruit. Remove any weak or diseased vine growth as the plant develops. In garden settings, allow the vining growth habit to sprawl naturally, though you can train vines onto trellises if space is limited.