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Vertical Melons

Square Foot Gardening List - http://www.flinet.com/~gallus/sqft.html

I know this topic is from last month, but I am getting caught up on my
600+ messages in my In Bin . . . :-)

Last year was my first attempt at growing melons, and I used the
vertical method.  I have 4'(width)x5'(height) vertical supports (as
shown in Mel's book) made from 1/2" EMT tubing.  I use cotton
twine/string to trellis the plants.  I grew both cantaloupes and
watermelons (Sugar Baby variety - since they are smaller).

I did use old pantyhose to support the melons.  I cut about 6" of the
'hose, and tied it to the vertical twine with another piece of twine.  I
wrapped the hose around the outside of the melon, and it expanded as the
fruit grew.

Instead of trimming the "secondary" vines, I just wrapped them around
the vertical twine like the main vine.  I figured as long as I had the
space, it would produce more fruit that way.  It worked well until late
in the summer, when things started getting crowded.  Then I started
trimming any new growth.  (I did trim the vines once they reached the
top of my vertical supports.)

I am using the same method this year - only difference is I planted more
plants.  I only got 3 watermelons from my one plant last year, and they
were sooooo yummy - so this year I planted 3 watermelons and 3
cantaloupes.

I hope this helps, and I am sorry for bringing up an old subject.

-Michelle - long time lurker, first time poster
 South Central PA  (I think it's zone 6, or is it 5?)


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