Growing Rockmelon, also Canteloupe

Cucumis melo : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S S                
        T T            
        P P            

(Best months for growing Rockmelon in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 68°F and 90°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 16 - 24 inches apart
  • Harvest in 10-16 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Sweetcorn, Sunflowers
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes
  • Young melons
  • Leaves and flowers

Start in small pots then transplant when no danger of frosts. Plant into a raised mound to provide good drainage and warmth. Provide plenty of water.

Ready to use when the fruit falls from the vine.

In cold climate regions start the seeds in a heated greenhouse with plenty of light in order to have a long enough growing season.

Rockmelons may need hand pollination with a soft brush.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Rockmelon

Cut in half and scoop out and discard the seeds.
Sprinkle with some ground ginger or serve plain.

Your comments and tips

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for USA | for all countries
29 May 16, Garvin Johny (USA - Zone 13b climate)
My Rock melon leaves are turning yellow near the edges and the buds at the end of the tendrils are also the same. Some of the young leaves I suspect are being eaten by something. I would love a solution.
Reply or Post a new comment
01 Jun 16, elaine (USA - Zone 10a climate)
not sure what is causing the yellowing - could be a number of things - too much water, or not enough nitrogen in the soil. You could try side dressing with composted manure. To stop the bugs spray with neem. 1 teaspoon neem oil in 1 quart of water with a dash of soap (washing up liquid works fine) and spray early evening. Also sprinkle diatomaceous earth over and around the plants. use the neem and DE on alternate days till you notice the leaves are not being eaten. happy harvesting!
Reply or Post a new comment
See comments for all plants

What is the best method to test ripeness of a rocky. Cheers

- John Davis

Please provide your email address if you are hoping for a reply


All comments are reviewed before displaying on the site, so your posting will not appear immediately

Gardenate App

Put Gardenate in your pocket. Get our app for iPhone, iPad or Android to add your own plants and record your plantings and harvests

Planting Reminders

Join 60,000+ gardeners who already use Gardenate and subscribe to the free Gardenate planting reminders email newsletter.


Home | Vegetables and herbs to plant | Climate zones | About Gardenate | Contact us | Privacy Policy

This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
We cannot help if you are overrun by giant slugs.