Choose a sunny location with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily
Prepare loose, well-draining soil enriched with compost
Space seedlings 3–5 feet apart in rows 6–8 feet apart
Harden off seedlings before transplanting
Transplant seedlings after all danger of frost has passed
Plant seedlings at the same depth they were growing in containers
Water deeply immediately after transplanting
Keep soil consistently moist, not waterlogged
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Feed with a balanced fertilizer at planting and switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer after vines begin to spread
Train vines to grow in open space
Hand-pollinate flowers if needed for better fruit set
Reduce watering slightly when fruits begin to ripen
Support developing fruits if growing vertically
Watch for pests and diseases regularly
Harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit turns brown and the underside of the melon turns creamy yellow