Melon Honey Bun F1 Plants

The Honey Bun F1 Melon plant is a compact and bushy variety, not cumbersome, perfect for small gardens and even balconies. The plant is early and produces 3 to 4 round melons of the Charentais Cantaloup type. They are small, up to 12 cm in diameter, weighing 400 to 600 g. The grey-green skin reveals a dark orange flesh, with a sweet honey flavour. In terms of eating, the Melon can be enjoyed both as a starter and as a dessert! Plant young plants from April to June, after the last frosts, for a harvest from July to September. They require pruning to bear fruit.

The Melon is a creeping annual herbaceous plant, belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is a round or elongated fruit, with smooth, ribbed or netted skin. The watery flesh can be green, white, yellow, or orange. In the 18th century, the Cantaloupe type melon appeared in Armenia, corresponding to the current Charentais type. It was cultivated near Rome in the pleasure house of the Popes, called Canta Lupi, which gave it the name Cantaloup. Its round fruits weigh 0.5 to 1.5 kg, their skin is light green, slightly yellowing at ripeness. The surface is marked with 9 to 12 ribs separated by dark green furrows. It is said to be "netted".

It is consumed raw as a starter or dessert, but also in sorbets, jams, compotes, or syrup. The small melons removed during thinning and various prunings can be prepared as pickles, marinated in vinegar and accompanied by herbs. Refreshing and diuretic, melon is rich in trace elements and vitamins A, B, and C.

Melons need nutrient-rich soil and plenty of warmth for a good fruit set.

The harvest: The melon is ready to be harvested when it gives off a sweet smell and a small crack appears around the peduncle. Cut it with pruning shears. Harvesting takes place from July to September approximately.

Storage: The melon can be kept for a few days (max 5 days) in a dry and airy place, on racks for example. If it has been opened or has suffered a knock, you can freeze it (cut the flesh into pieces and moisten it with lemon juice).

Gardener's tip: Place a slate plate or a tile under the fruit. It will no longer be in direct contact with the ground, thus avoiding rotting due to moisture. Also, remember to mulch around the plants, especially in the height of summer, to keep the soil moist.