Planting, Pollinating, and Preparing Melons
By May, all melons are growing quickly, spreading their long vines throughout the garden, flowering, and hopefully fruit set is well underway. The first flush of flowers in melons is dominated by female flowers, known by the tiny fruit at the base. Without pollination, the fruit may grow a bit then fall off. To increase fruit set, hand-pollinate daily, as early in the day as possible. Pick a male flower and rub the pollen on a female flower or two. Flowers only last a day, so don't worry about picking them.
