Hara Madhu Melon, sliced with chunks removed on a white background.
Haru Madhu Melons, whole, halved and in balls on wooden table top and dark background.
Hara Madhu melons in multiple shades.
Hara Madhu Melons with gray/blue background.
Hara Madhu melons with wedge removed.
Hara Madhu Melon, sliced with chunks removed on a white background.
Haru Madhu Melons, whole, halved and in balls on wooden table top and dark background.
Hara Madhu melons in multiple shades.
Hara Madhu Melons with gray/blue background.
Hara Madhu melons with wedge removed.

Melon Seeds,
Hara Madhu

4.39 ReviewsSKU: #OML158Min. seed count: 25
Price
Regular price $4.00
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Description

(Cucumis melo). This gorgeous teardrop-shaped melon from Punjab, India, is dripping with sweetness, boasting a sky-high sugar brix level and exquisite flavor. Introduced in 1967 by Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana, India, the Hara Madhu is an improvement on several old local landrace varieties from what is now the state of Haryana, just south of Punjab. Its incredible flavor is a testament to the local flavors of the region. It is improved to grow vigorously in a wide range of climates, including the U.S. 10- to 12 foot-long vines produce plenty of 2- to 3-pound, green- and cream-striped fruit with white flesh and a rather short shelf life.

Growing Tips: Hara Madhu melons are heat-tolerant, high-sugar melons with sweet, aromatic green flesh and excellent resistance to hot, dry conditions. Grow them in loose, fertile soil with excellent drainage. Keep vines mulched to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Maintain consistent watering for optimal fruit quality and reduce stress during high-heat periods. Prune overcrowded vines to encourage airflow and fruit set.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucumis melo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
4–14
Days to Maturity
85–95
Planting Depth
½–¾ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost once the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F, or start indoors 3–4 weeks early to gain a head start in zones with shorter growing seasons. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Plant seeds 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep in rows spaced 4–6 feet apart. Space individual plants 18–24 inches apart, or sow 2–3 seeds per hill and thin to one vigorous seedling. Use floating row covers early in the season for warmth and pest protection, removing them once flowering begins to allow for pollination.

How to Grow

Water deeply 1–2 times per week, especially during flowering and fruiting. Fertilize with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer at the vining and blooming stages. Support vines with trellises if desired and cradle fruits with slings. Harvest Hara Madhu melons when the rind turns slightly yellow, emits a sweet scent, and slips easily from the stem.

How to Save Seeds

Note: if you are planning to save seeds, you must isolate Cucumis melo varieties from each other to prevent cross-pollination, or bag the flowers and hand-pollinate them

  • Let fruits fully ripen and begin to soften on the vine
  • Cut the melon open and scoop out seeds
  • Place seeds in a bowl of water and ferment for 1–2 days
  • Rinse and remove floating debris
  • Spread seeds on a screen or paper towel to dry thoroughly
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place in labeled envelopes for up to 5 years

FAQ

Is Hara Madhu melon good for hot and arid climates?

Yes, Hara Madhu melon is well-suited for hot and dry climates due to its heat tolerance and drought resilience. Consistent watering during flowering and fruiting ensures high sugar content and proper development.

How big do Hara Madhu melons grow?

Hara Madhu melons typically reach 2 to 3 pounds at maturity. Their compact, teardrop shape and thin skin encase intensely sweet flesh with a rich fragrance and smooth texture.

How do I know when Hara Madhu melons are ready to harvest?

Hara Madhu melons are ready to harvest when they emit a rich, sweet aroma and easily detach from the vine with a gentle tug. The blossom end may also yield slightly under pressure.

Browse our full range of melon seeds.

Customer reviews

4.3 / 5 9 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Laughs at heat: Thrives through summers well over 100 degrees.

  • Heavy fruit set: Vines set a generous number of melons per plant.

  • Mild honeydew flavor: Sweet and mild, honeydew-like, when picked at the right time.

  • Easy to grow: Easy to grow, even in gardens where melons usually struggle.

  • Heads up: Several found it mealy; pick promptly and eat right away.

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