Green Nutmeg Melon

This aromatic, green cantaloupe with a nutmeg shape and netted skin is a delicious and tried-and-true heirloom variety. Yielding medium sweet fruit with subtle spicy nutmeg aftertaste, this is one of the oldest varieties of cantaloupe that has been grown and distributed in America. It was first mentioned in Bernard McMahon’s “The American Gardener’s Calendar” in 1806 and also by Thomas Jefferson in 1811. Seeds for this variety were sourced from the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants at Monticello. Check them out for more historic heirloom varieties.

Days to Maturity: 80

Seeds per pack: 24

Germination rate: 99% on 12/21/23

Planting / harvesting notes

Start seeds directly in the soil after the last danger of frost. Grow on hills spaced two feet apart, six seeds per hill, thinned to the best three plants. In cooler climates, start indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost and transplant. Keep soil moist until germination.

Seed keeping notes

Isolate by 1/2 mile from other members of C. melo, including other muskmelons, cantaloupes, honeydews, and Armenian cucumbers. Harvest fruits when very ripe to ensure fully mature seeds. Rinse seeds and allow to dry in a ventilated place away from direct sunlight.