How to Grow Kiwano (Horned Melon)
Cucumis metuliferus
Kiwano needs full sun, warm soil, and a sturdy trellis — it's a vigorous vine that can reach 3 m. Sow indoors 3 weeks before the last frost, then plant out when nights stay above 15 °C. Water regularly during establishment and fruit set, but avoid waterlogging. Feed fortnightly with a balanced fertiliser, switching to low-nitrogen once flowers appear. Harvest when the skin is bright orange and spines are firm — the fruit keeps for weeks at room temperature.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 3 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 15°C and soil has warmed to at least 18°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Apply a balanced liquid feed every two weeks once the plant is established. Switch to a low-nitrogen, higher-potash feed once flowering begins.
- Kiwano is a vigorous climbing vine that benefits from a trellis or fence for support. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions and is drought-tolerant once established, though consistent moisture improves fruit set.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 18°C+
- Germination temperature
- 20–30°C
Pet Safety
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 60 cm |
| Row spacing | 100 cm |
| Sow depth | 2 cm |
| Mature height | 200 cm |
| Mature spread | 150 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 18°C |
| Germination temperature | 20–30°C |
| Base growth temperature | 15°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 12h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Kiwano (Horned Melon)?
- Plant Kiwano (Horned Melon) 60cm apart with 100cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Kiwano (Horned Melon)?
- Kiwano (Horned Melon) is ready to harvest approximately 65 days after transplanting.
- Is Kiwano (Horned Melon) frost hardy?
- Kiwano (Horned Melon) is classified as Tender.
