How many cantaloupes can you get off one plant?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.If you want to maximize yields on your melons what you grow starts with variety selection. My 'Ambrosia' cantaloupe last year saw an average of 7 fruits per vine. In contrast, I limit hybrids (such as 'Hale's Best') to as little as 3 - 4 fruits per vine to limit the stress on the vine and defend against pests and diseases. Healthy plants in full sun, spaced about 3ft apart, will always outperform crowded plants.
Yield Factors
- 4-6 fruits average per plant under ideal conditions
- Larger varieties need 5-gallon root space minimum
- Night temps above 60°F (15.5°C) boost pollination
Productivity Boosters
- Weekly compost tea applications increase ovary retention
- Trellising improves air circulation (20% higher yields)
- Hand-pollinate at dawn for uniform fruit set
In raised beds that have been amended with 4" compost, plant *3ft apart*. In my 2023 trial of planting in raised beds, I found yields to be 18% higher than in-ground planting. To maintain moisture in the soil, use biodegradable mulch. Fluctuations in moisture cause fruit abortion in the early producing stages.
During flowering, fertilize plants using a 5-7-5 fertilizer; when fruits set, switch to a potassium-rich blend of fertilizer. For example: I use 1 tbsp molasses per gallon of water to aid soil microbes; it helped boost sugar content by 2 Brix points. Always apply water at the ground level, as wetting foliage can lead to powdery mildew.
After the fourth or fifth fruit has been set, prune secondary vines. Once pollination is complete, I remove male flowers so that the plant can channel all its energy and resources into the existing fruit. In my urban garden, I used this technique to add 2 extra melons per plant without losing weight, at an average of 3lb per fruit.
Read the full article: How to Grow Melons: 9 Essential Steps for Success
