Cucamelon (Melothria scabra) is a sweet little fruit that looks like small watermelons but is similar in size to grapes, with a flavor of cucumber dipped in lime! In this article we teach you how to propagate, grow cucamelon in a pot and how to care for it.
Contents
Propagate Cucamelon
Since cucamelon plants aren’t very popular, it can be difficult to find their seeds at a local store or nursery. However, if you are successful, it is better to use seedlings rather than seeds. Another way to get the seeds is online.
When the ripe fruits fall from the plant, keep them in a cool place. After two weeks, cut the fruit in half and collect the seeds. Store these seeds in a jar filled with water for a week. Then dry them on a paper towel; It is done! Your seeds are ready to be sown.
You can start planting them when all danger of frost has passed in your area, in early spring.
It is always a good idea to sow the seeds directly in the desired location or in separate pots as they do not tolerate transplanting well.
Ideal pot for growing Cucamelon
You can grow one or two plants in a 15-20 liter pot (30-35 cm wide and deep). A 60cm pot is suitable for growing 3-4 cucamelon plants.
Make sure the container has enough drainage holes. Amend the soil with plenty of organic matter.
If you are growing several plants, keep the pots 30-60 cm apart so that they have enough space.
Growing conditions for Cucamelon in pots
Location
Cucamelons thrive in warmer conditions. You should plant them where they receive at least 6 hours of sun per day. If they are planted in the shade, the fruits will be less abundant.
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Like all fruit-bearing plants, cucamelons also need nutrient-rich, loose, well-drained soil.
You can use organic matter and compost.
Weather conditions
Cucamelon prefers warm growing conditions, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be grown in cooler climates. Plant them when the danger of frost has passed.
Cucamelon in Pot
Irrigation
Even in hot weather, cucamelons do not need daily watering, thanks to their ability to store water in their roots as tubers. In hot climates, you can water the plant once a week.
In cold weather or when fog and clouds block the sun for an extended period, water the plants only when the topsoil is dry.
To note: Overwatering can cause root rot, so avoid it.
Use a wire mesh or cage
Cucamelons can reach 2 to 3 meters in length and need a stable and sturdy structure to thrive. You can install a trellis or a wire in the form of a trellis or a cage.
Not only will this act as a support structure, but it will also help you grow potted cucamelon the way you want. Additionally, the trellis will also help keep the stem and fruit off the ground.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize the plant is when the flowers start to appear. Using fish emulsion in small amounts once a week is a good start. This will keep cucamelon production prolific. You can also use bone meal.
Avoid the use of high nitrogen fertilizers as they may hamper the fruit production of the plant.
Plagues and diseases
Surprisingly, cucamelons are not prone to pests and diseases. As long as they’re not on the ground.
They do not require pest control measures. Yes! You heard it right! For unknown reasons, the pests leave the cucamelons alone, and even the birds stay away from them!
harvest the cucamelon
Fruits begin to appear just after 2-3 weeks of flowering. Pick them up when they are firm.
The collection of cucamelons does not differ from that of cucumbers. They are also very easy to store, thanks to their size. As long as you keep them at room temperature, they will keep well.
It may also be interesting to read: How to sow, grow watermelon in a pot and its care
However, over time they will lose their crispiness. Pick some fruits a little before their fruiting period, as this increases production.
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