Most melons are grown commercially only in warm countries in tropical and subtropical latitudes. Since the season for melons is only short in this country, growing them in a greenhouse offers advantages.
Choosing varieties for growing in the greenhouse
Basically, all types of melon can enjoy the warm, humid climate in a greenhouse as long as there is no build-up of heat or dryness of the soil substrate. However, different types of melons have different space requirements, which should be taken into account when planting melons in the greenhouse. Large and heavy watermelons like Crimson Sweet need large areas and support points for the huge fruits. In a smaller greenhouse, it is better to use watermelon seeds of the Sugar Baby variety, as their fruits, like Charentais melons and other sugar melons, can also ripen hanging on climbing tendrils.
Harvest fully ripe melons from the greenhouse
A greenhouse extends the growing season for melons so that the lower temperatures outdoors in this country can be compensated for. However, you should also make sure to adapt the other conditions in the greenhouse to the needs of melons. The soil for melons should be permeable and nutrient-rich, but not prone to waterlogging. Like their related pumpkins, melons appreciate climbing opportunities because their large leaves allow them to capture even more light to generate energy. If you sow and plant the plants early enough, many varieties can be harvested ripe from July and August. The death of the plant tendrils before autumn frosts is an indication of the ripeness of the fruit.
Bring melons ahead of time in spring
Even when growing in a greenhouse, it doesn't hurt if you initially grow the plants indoors from April onwards. Grow two to three seeds in a plant pot that will later decompose to save the sensitive roots the stress of pricking out.
Tips & Tricks
Even when planting young melons from the windowsill into the greenhouse, you should slowly get the plants used to direct sunlight. To do this, first place the pots in the sun for a few hours before finally planting out the plants.
