Grow Citron Melon The Easy Way

Growing Citron Melon the Easy Way

Citron melon, also known as Citrullus lanatus var. citroides, is a resilient and intriguing crop. While it looks like a small watermelon, its firm, pale flesh is better suited for preserves or candied treats than fresh snacking.

I first grew citron melon by accident. A neighbor handed me seeds one spring, with a sly smile and no instructions. It turned out to be one of the most low-maintenance plants I’ve grown, and now it’s a staple in my garden.

Choose the Right Spot

Like watermelons, citron melon thrives in full sun. Six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for healthy vines and fruits. A sunny corner of your garden with well-draining soil works best.

The soil doesn’t need to be perfect. Citron melon tolerates poor soil better than most cucurbits. Still, I recommend mixing in compost to give your plants a head start.

Planting Citron Melon Seeds

Direct sowing is my favorite method for citron melon. These seeds are tough and germinate best in warm soil. Wait until the soil temperature is consistently above 70°F.

1. Sow seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them 2-3 feet apart.
2. If planting in hills, place 4-5 seeds per hill, then thin to the 2 strongest seedlings once they sprout.
3. Water gently but thoroughly after planting.

If you’re in a short-season climate, start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant seedlings carefully to avoid disturbing their roots.

Watering and Feeding

Citron melons are drought-tolerant, but for the best yields, they need consistent moisture. Water deeply once or twice a week, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

Avoid overhead watering. Wet leaves can encourage powdery mildew, which citron melon vines are known to attract. Drip irrigation or a soaker hose works wonders here.

As for fertilizing, I’ve found that a balanced fertilizer, applied at planting and once more midseason, is plenty. Over-fertilizing leads to lush vines and few melons, so don’t overdo it.

Pest and Disease Management

The good news is citron melon is remarkably pest-resistant. The thick rind deters pests like squash bugs and cucumber beetles. Occasionally, vine borers may appear, but they rarely cause significant damage.

That said, powdery mildew can be a nuisance. Spacing plants properly and ensuring good air circulation helps. If it shows up, a simple homemade spray of baking soda, water, and a bit of liquid soap can keep it in check.

Citron melons are among the hardiest melons you’ll ever grow, shrugging off pests and thriving where other melons might struggle.

Harvesting Citron Melons

It’s tricky at first to know when a citron melon is ripe. Unlike watermelons, the tendril near the stem doesn’t always dry up. The best way? Look for a dull, slightly waxy finish on the rind and a hollow sound when tapped.

Once harvested, these melons can be stored for months in a cool, dry place. I’ve had some last well into winter, making them perfect for off-season jam-making or baking.

Creative Uses for Citron Melon

Don’t expect to slice into citron melon and enjoy it raw—it’s not that kind of fruit. Instead, its firm flesh is ideal for marmalades, chutneys, or even pies. I’ve made candied citron for holiday baking, and it’s always a hit.

For a simple treat, try simmering diced citron melon with sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of ginger. The result is a bright, tangy preserve that’s perfect on toast or as a glaze for roasted meats.

Why Grow Citron Melon?

If you’ve never tried growing citron melon, it’s a rewarding crop with minimal fuss. Whether you’re looking for a unique addition to your garden or a hardy plant that thrives in tough conditions, this melon delivers.

Plus, there’s a kind of magic in growing something that connects us to old-fashioned kitchens and forgotten recipes. Citron melon reminds me that gardening isn’t just about food—it’s about stories, too.

Growing Citron melon is a great way to increase the variety of produce in a garden. Not only does this unique melon have a delicious and unusual flavor, but it is a relatively easy plant to grow and can survive in most climates, making it a great addition to any garden. Adding Citron melon to your garden is a fantastic way to add a new level of flavor and fun. So don’t miss out, start growing Citron melon today!