Seeds can be started inside or outside. Cucumelons do not like their roots to be disturbed during transplanting so if starting seeds indoors, use biodegradable pots. Start seeds indoors 5/1-5/15 into a good starting mix (1/4" deep). Temperature for germination: 68-85° (use heating mat). Cucamelon seedlings are sensitive to damping off fungus so keep soil lightly moist but not too wet and use a fan (set to low) to provide air circulation. Days to germination: 4-10. Transplant outdoors (plant entire biodegradable pot into soil) around 6/1 into fertile soil with lots of compost or decomposed manure. Or direct sow seeds outdoors 6/1 (1/2” deep). Plant spacing: 1 foot apart. Protect seedlings from slugs. Protect plants from deer and groundhogs.
Pick fruit as they mature.
Pick ripe fruit and hold inside for a week or two to ripen seeds further. Scoop out seed, rinse, and dry on a screen. Minimum population size: 6-25 plants.
Our Recommendations with Cucamelon Mexican Gherkin
