How to Germinate Cantaloupe Seeds

Sow seeds ½ inches deep in seed-starting formula. Keep the soil moist at 70 degrees F. Seedlings emerge in 7-10 days. As soon as seedlings emerge, provide plenty of light on a sunny windowsill or grow seedlings 3-4 inches beneath fluorescent plant lights turned on 16 hours per day, off for 8 hours at night.

To germinate cantaloupe seeds, you can follow these steps:

1. Choose high-quality seeds: If you’re using seeds from a fresh cantaloupe, select seeds from a well-developed and great-tasting melon.
2. Clean and dry the seeds: Clean the seeds and allow them to dry in a cool, dry, and dimly lit place.
3. Check soil temperature: Cantaloupe seeds need a soil temperature of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit to germinate. Use a soil thermometer to check the temperature at a depth of 2 to 3 inches.
4. Plant the seeds: Plant the cantaloupe seeds about 1/2 to 1 inch deep in well-draining soil. You can either directly sow the seeds in the garden or start them indoors in biodegradable pots 3-4 weeks before the last frost.
5. Provide proper conditions: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Cantaloupes have a shallow root system, so mulching can help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. Additionally, provide plenty of light for the seedlings on a sunny windowsill or use artificial lighting if necessary.
6. Transplanting: Once the seedlings have emerged and the weather is consistently warm, you can transplant them into the garden or larger pots. Space the plants 2 feet apart.

Remember to adjust the instructions based on your specific growing conditions and the recommendations on the seed packet or from a trusted gardening source. Happy gardening!