50
GOLDEN BEAUTY
CASABA MELON
SEEDS
Cultivation Guide for Golden Beauty Casaba Melon:
1. Planting Seeds:
- Start by selecting a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Sow the seeds directly into the ground in late spring or early summer, as they require warm soil temperatures.
- Space the seeds about 2-3 feet apart, as these melons have a sprawling growth habit.
- Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and cover them with soil.
- Water the seeds gently and keep the soil moist until they germinate, which usually takes about 7-10 days.
2. Growing Conditions:
- Casaba melons prefer warm temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C).
- Provide regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not overly saturated.
- Mulching around the plants will help retain soil moisture and deter weed growth.
- Fertilize the plants every 2-3 weeks using a balanced organic fertilizer.
- Trellising may be helpful to support the vines and keep the melons off the ground.
3. Harvesting:
- Golden Beauty Casaba Melons are typically ready for harvest 80-90 days after sowing the seeds.
- Look for signs such as a light yellow color, a slight wrinkle on the skin, a fruity aroma, and a slight give when pressed gently.
- Cut the melon from the vine, leaving a short stem attached.
Popular Recipe: Casaba Melon Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe Golden Beauty Casaba Melon
- 1 cup mint leaves, loosely packed
- 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste