The best melons I grow outdoors are sown direct in a coldframe on top of a freshly made compost heap in late spring. In warmer regions than Britain, melons can be planted out where they like to ramble under sweet corn or sunflowers. On the ground, place young fruit on a piece of wood or tile to stop it rotting. Under cover, melons are usually trained up strong strings; the ripening fruits need to be supported in bags or nets.
Epicurean attentions:
Pick melons when they give off scent and the stalk will start to pull out. Chill for a day, or so, then gently warm just before serving.
Watermelons are even more difficult to grow than melons in a cold climate, but I just manage them in a heated coldframe and in my polytunnel. Watermelons are started much the same as indoor cucumbers and need similar conditions, but prefer a more open, gritty compost and need more sun and lots of water. They seem to be the ultimate spider mite attractant! Although not enormous, the home-grown fruit's texture and sweetness have amazed me. Try 'Sugar Baby' or 'Yellow Baby'.
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