Melons appreciate warmth from their earliest days of cultivation. After sowing, young melon seedlings can be transplanted into pots and then planted out once temperatures are consistently mild. Here are the right steps to ensure successful transplanting.
Melons : key stages of transplanting
| Step | Timing | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Potting on | 2 to 3 weeks after sowing | Development of 2 true leaves |
| Planting out | After frosts | Soil warmed, above 15 °C |
| Plant establishment | First weeks | Regular watering and warmth |
Why transplant melons?
Transplanting supports growth of young seedlings before they are planted permanently in the vegetable garden. This operation offers several benefits :
- provide more space for roots
- strengthen seedlings before moving outdoors
- promote more even growth
- improve establishment after planting
Because melons dislike cold, this sheltered phase helps seedlings get off to a good start.
When to transplant melons?
Young melons can be transplanted about 2 to 3 weeks after sowing, when they begin to develop their first true leaves.
Between April and May, under cover
If sowing of melon seeds was done in seed trays or cell trays, pot on each seedling into an individual pot as soon as they become too crowded.
From May for outdoor planting
Wait until temperatures remain consistently mild before planting out. Soil should be well warmed and risk of frost completely eliminated.
Melons perform better in a warm environment: planting out too early can halt their development.
How to transplant melons?
Required equipment:
Step 1 : Transfer young plants into pots
This step mainly concerns grouped sowings carried out under cover.
- Prepare pots filled with moist compost
- Gently lift young melons
- Make a planting hole with a dibber
- Pot on each seedling without over-handling roots
- Firm gently then water
- Keep seedlings in a bright, warm place, around 20 °C minimum.
Melons tolerate damaged roots poorly: handle roots with care.
Step 2 : Plant melons in vegetable garden
When weather is sufficiently warm, seedlings can be planted outdoors.
- Work soil deeply
- Add compost to enrich soil
- Moisten pots before planting
- Space plants 80 cm to 1 metre apart
- Place rootballs level with soil surface
- Water generously after planting
Choose a very sunny, sheltered spot to encourage fruit development.
Caring for young melon plants
- Keep soil cool with regular watering
- Mulch to retain warmth and moisture
- Watch for cool nights in spring
- Train stems to limit overcrowding
A melon well established in rich, warm soil will more readily produce sweet, fragrant fruit.
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