Post by sphinxeyes on May 19, 2009 23:53:32 GMT -5
I decided to move all my melon-related posts to their own thread so I can make more regular updates and keep those who are interested in the loop.
What: Minnesota Midget x Collective Farm Woman
Quantity: 3 seeds
Sowed: Mid-March
How: I started the seeds together in regular seed starting mix in one pot on top of the radiator in bathroom. Once they sprouted I moved them under fluorescent light until they got their second leaves, around first week of April.
Transplant day, April 5th: I moved the melon seedlings outside into the greenhouse, splitting them up into 3 separate 3 gallon buckets. I used regular potting mix for the buckets.
Problems encountered: I've since learned that melons have very delicate roots and since they had grown together, I had to tear some of them while transplanted. Seedings appeared weak and wilted.
Solutions: I drilled some holes in the sides of the buckets, an inch from the bottom and started watering more deeply until the water runs out the holes. Seedlings take about another 2 weeks to fully regain their strength.
Greenhouse care: Seedlings were kept in the greenhouse around 60-70 degrees most days for the rest of April, except on very warm days.
Watering: Soaking every other day
Out of the greenhouse: Buckets positioned against the house, getting mid to late day sun. I think my deck faces northwest, the sun sets over it.
Amendments: After moving buckets outside, I added a few hefty spoonfuls of compost mixed with perlite to mound around the top of the buckets. I also added a cup of composted worm tea to each bucket.
Temperatures: Temps here in southern NJ have been up and down the last few weeks, ranging from 60-mid/high 80s during the day. So far these ups and downs aren't negatively affecting the melons growth. The cooler temps might even be benefitting them since they're a northern variety. Time will tell.
Current status a/o May 19th: During the past week all 3 melon plants have started to produce tendrils, and continue to produce new leaves. I bought some long wooden dowels and plan to make trellises for them to wind around. More on that later, plus photos to follow.
What: Minnesota Midget x Collective Farm Woman
Quantity: 3 seeds
Sowed: Mid-March
How: I started the seeds together in regular seed starting mix in one pot on top of the radiator in bathroom. Once they sprouted I moved them under fluorescent light until they got their second leaves, around first week of April.
Transplant day, April 5th: I moved the melon seedlings outside into the greenhouse, splitting them up into 3 separate 3 gallon buckets. I used regular potting mix for the buckets.
Problems encountered: I've since learned that melons have very delicate roots and since they had grown together, I had to tear some of them while transplanted. Seedings appeared weak and wilted.
Solutions: I drilled some holes in the sides of the buckets, an inch from the bottom and started watering more deeply until the water runs out the holes. Seedlings take about another 2 weeks to fully regain their strength.
Greenhouse care: Seedlings were kept in the greenhouse around 60-70 degrees most days for the rest of April, except on very warm days.
Watering: Soaking every other day
Out of the greenhouse: Buckets positioned against the house, getting mid to late day sun. I think my deck faces northwest, the sun sets over it.
Amendments: After moving buckets outside, I added a few hefty spoonfuls of compost mixed with perlite to mound around the top of the buckets. I also added a cup of composted worm tea to each bucket.
Temperatures: Temps here in southern NJ have been up and down the last few weeks, ranging from 60-mid/high 80s during the day. So far these ups and downs aren't negatively affecting the melons growth. The cooler temps might even be benefitting them since they're a northern variety. Time will tell.
Current status a/o May 19th: During the past week all 3 melon plants have started to produce tendrils, and continue to produce new leaves. I bought some long wooden dowels and plan to make trellises for them to wind around. More on that later, plus photos to follow.