Lilly Crenshaw Hybrid Melon F1

The Lilly Crenshaw Melon is a hybrid variety that is an extra-early producer as compared to most other Crenshaw varieties. The 6-8 lb. fruits feature pale yellow skin with a light orange flesh and are among the sweetest melons you can grow. Closely resembling its parent, the Casaba melon, the oblong fruits have a distinct spicy/sweet flavor profile that you won't find in other varieties. With resistance to powdery mildew and watermelon mosaic virus, the Lilly Crenshaw makes an excellent choice for those with issues growing melons and also zones that have shorter growing seasons. Cucumis melo. 78 Days To Maturity.

Melons may be direct-seeded or transplanted. For direct seeding, we recommend planting Seeds every 12″ along the intended row to ensure a good stand. Once plants emerge, thin plants to one every 2 feet. Melons can be susceptible to plant diseases if excess leaf moisture is present. As a result, we recommend using drip irrigation on watermelons to reduce leaf moisture and feed plants more effectively. During periods of heavy rainfall, using a fungicide like Liquid Copper can help to alleviate disease pressure as well.

Melons also perform well when transplanted. In early spring, we recommend transplanting to get a jump start on the growing season. Melons prefers warmer temperatures for seed to germinate. By transplanting, you can have plants in the ground before the soil temperature warms enough to direct seed. We recommend starting transplants 4-5 weeks before the desired outdoor planting date.

Melon transplants grow great in our heavy-duty seed starting trays, where they develop a solid root ball with roots that are trained to grow downward. Plants are ready to go in the ground when they can be easily pulled from the cells in the seed starting tray. Melons are ready to harvest when the tendril near the fruit completely dries. The tendril can be found between the fruit stem and the fruit. It is usually curly and green, but will dry when fruits are ready to harvest.

Lilly Crenshaw Melon Planting Information

Planting Method: direct seed or transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/2″

Seed Spacing: 24″

Row Spacing: 5-6′

Days to Maturity: 78

Disease Resistance: Powdery Mildew, Watermelon Mosaic Virus