How to Grow Cucamelon
Melothria scabra
Cucamelons are grape-sized fruits that look like tiny watermelons and taste like cucumber with a citrus zing. Start seeds indoors in spring — they are slow to germinate, so be patient. Plant out after last frost into rich soil with a trellis or netting. They are vigorous climbers and much tougher than cucumbers, shrugging off most pests and diseases. Pick fruits regularly at 2-3cm for the best flavour. In mild areas, the tubers can survive winter for an earlier crop next year.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 5 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 12°C and soil has warmed to at least 15°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Liquid feed fortnightly once fruits start forming. Cucamelons are lighter feeders than cucumbers.
- Much hardier and more disease-resistant than cucumbers. Slow to germinate but vigorous once established. Tubers can be overwintered in mild areas for an earlier start next year.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 15°C+
- Germination temperature
- 20–30°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 25 cm |
| Row spacing | 40 cm |
| Sow depth | 1.5 cm |
| Mature height | 200 cm |
| Mature spread | 30 cm |
Grow on a trellis or netting for best results. Plants are vigorous climbers and will scramble over supports up to 2.5m tall.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 15°C |
| Germination temperature | 20–30°C |
| Base growth temperature | 12°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 10.5h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Cucamelon?
- Plant Cucamelon 25cm apart with 40cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Cucamelon?
- Cucamelon is ready to harvest approximately 70 days after transplanting.
- Is Cucamelon frost hardy?
- Cucamelon is classified as Tender.
