What is a Galia melon? Galia melons have a tropical, sweet flavor similar to cantaloupe, with a hint of banana. The attractive fruit is orange-yellow, and the firm, smooth flesh is lime green. Galia melon plants were developed in Israel in the 1960's. Since that time, the hardy melons have gained popularity in countries around the world.
Growing Galia melons isn’t difficult, even in humid or rainy climates. However, Galia melon plants need two to three months of consistently warm weather. Let’s learn how to grow Galia melon plants.
Care of Galia Melons
Plant Galia melon seeds directly in the garden when soil temperatures are at least 60 degrees F. (16 C.). If you live in a climate with short summers, start seeds indoors about a month earlier. Plant the seeds in small pots filled with commercial potting soil. Germination requires temps of at least 68 degrees F. (21 C.).
Melons need rich, well-drained soil. Dig a generous amount of compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting. Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Moisture is especially important while the vines are growing and forming fruits. Water at the base of the plant and keep the stems and leaves as dry as possible.
Feed Galia melon plants regularly throughout the season using a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer.
You can hand pollinate the plant as soon as flowers form. The easiest way to accomplish this is to lightly brush each flower with a small paintbrush, then remove male flowers after two or three days. (Female blooms have a small, swollen area at the base of the flower.)
Cut down watering about a week before harvest so sugar is more concentrated and the fruit will be sweeter. Water just enough to prevent wilting. Avoid overwatering at this point, which may cause the fruit to split.
A layer of mulch under the vines prevents moisture evaporation and discourages growth of weeds. Pull any weeds as soon as they appear so they don’t rob moisture and nutrients from the melon plants.
Provide support for Galia melon plants when the melons are about the size of tennis balls. If you would rather let the plant sprawl, cover the ground with straw to prevent damage to the melons. You can also set the developing melons on coffee cans or flower pots to keep them above the soil.
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