70-75 Days. Type: East/Tuscan Mini Melon with salmon flesh, heavy netting. Brix above 15%. Vigorous vine with excellent cover. Oblong-shaped fruit, thin rind and small seed cavity. Dark green, small-leafed plant with spreading vines out 8 to 12 feet. Vines are lightly spined with tan netting and green stripes in light sutures. Salmon colored flesh with small seed cavity. Fine grained fruit, very sweet flavor; 13-15% Brix; 4-4.5" diameter weighing 2-2.6 pounds. Excellent melon.
Growing Zena Cantaloupe Melon Garden Seeds
- Latin Name: Cucumis melo
- Other Names: Rockmelon, Sweet melon, Spanspek
- Days to Maturity: 70-75 days
- Planting Depth: 1/2 - 1” inch deep
- Plant Spacing: 1-2"
- Growth Habit: Vine
- Soil Preference: Mulching keeps moisture in the soil; well-drained, well-watered
- Temp Preference: 70° or higher
- Light Preference: Full Sun
- Pests/diseases: Downy aphids, cucumber beetles
- Color: Dark green
- Flavor: Very sweet, succulent, juicy
Melon Zena flourishes best in warmer, more tropical temperatures and yields oblong fruit with tan, meshed outer skin, bright orange insides and edible seeds. Seeds can be sown indoors and after two to four weeks transferred to the outdoors, allowing four to six feet between plants. Check periodically during the growing process, snipping away blossoms and small melons that may sap energy from the growth of large melons. Grow with marigolds and/or radishes for pest control.
Additional Facts and Information
Cantaloupe Zena is a powerhouse of Beta carotene; 120% Vitamin A, 108% Vitamin C, and potassium. Water content is high; and although very sweet, it is low in natural sugar. Refrigerate for about three to five days maximum; any longer may run the risk of salmonella or bacterial pathogens. Freezing preserves melon for several months. Seeds are edible and simple to add to smoothies.