Add a whimsical touch to your garden with Cucamelon Seeds, also known as Mouse Melon or Mexican Sour Gherkin. This delightful vine produces tiny fruits that resemble miniature watermelons but taste like tangy cucumbers with a hint of lemon. Perfect for salads, pickling, or snacking right off the vine, Cucamelons are not only delicious but also charming and easy to grow.
Specifications for Cucamelon Seeds - Melothria scabra (Mexican Sour Gherkin):
Season: Annual
USDA Zones: 4-11
Height: Vines up to 10 feet
Bloom Season: Mid-summer
Bloom Color: Yellow
Environment: Full sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile
Deer Resistant: Moderate
Latin Name: Melothria scabra
Temperature: Thrives above 65°F
Germ Time: 7-14 days
Light Required: Full sun
Depth: Sow 1/2 inch deep
Moisture: Regular initially, moderate once established
Plant Spacing: 6 inches apart, trellis recommended for vertical growth
Planting Instructions:
Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun.
Soil Type: Grows best in well-drained, fertile soil.
Watering Needs: Water regularly until established; then water moderately.
Plant Spacing: Space plants about 6 inches apart in rows, or plant several in a large container.
Cucamelons can be trained up trellises or allowed to cascade beautifully in hanging baskets, making them a versatile addition to any garden space. Their resistance to common cucumber pests and ability to withstand drought make them a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for an unusual yet robust plant. Enjoy the novelty and flavor of this delightful vine in your garden this season!
I do not have an indoor garden so I am waiting until spring to plant. I will try planting closer to Feb or March in small pods watering with spray bottle, and slowly introduce the plants to outdoor conditions.