Whole and cut Rich Sweetness 132 Melons on a white background.
Melon Seeds, Rich Sweetness 132
Melon Seeds, Rich Sweetness 132
Rich Sweetness 132 Melons with coins for size reference.
Rich Sweetness 132 Melon being held in tiny hand.
Rich Sweetness 132 Melon being held by adult.
Whole and cut Rich Sweetness 132 Melons on a white background.
Melon Seeds, Rich Sweetness 132
Melon Seeds, Rich Sweetness 132
Rich Sweetness 132 Melons with coins for size reference.
Rich Sweetness 132 Melon being held in tiny hand.
Rich Sweetness 132 Melon being held by adult.

Melon Seeds,
Rich Sweetness 132

3.658 ReviewsSKU: #OML126Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Cucumis melo). A tiny and wondrous melon from the former Soviet Union. Vibrant color, intense sweet aroma, and juicy, honeydew-like flesh make this a favorite edible ornamental. Allow the vines to climb a trellis or fence, and you will be rewarded with luminous striped fruit about the size of a tennis ball. Its whimsical eye appeal and intoxicating scent will transform landscape and garden designs into a fairy land, but the fruit isn’t just photogenic; it’s also deliciously sweet and juicy! The vines produce a large yield, early in the season.

Growing Tips: Rich Sweetness melons are a striking heirloom variety from Russia, known for their vivid red and yellow striped rinds and crisp, mildly sweet white flesh. These small melons thrive in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weed pressure. Their compact vines are well-suited for small gardens or container growing with vertical support.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucumis melo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
4–14
Days to Maturity
75–85
Planting Depth
½–¾ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Direct sow seeds outdoors once soil temperatures are above 70°F, or start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost in cooler climates. Transplant only after all danger of frost has passed. 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

Sow seeds 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep, spacing plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 3–4 feet apart. Alternatively, plant 2–3 seeds per hill and thin to the strongest seedling. Use floating row covers early to protect seedlings from pests and enhance warmth. Remove covers once flowering begins to allow for pollination.

How to Grow

Water deeply and regularly, especially during flowering and fruiting. Avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk. Fertilize with compost or organic fertilizer at the vining stage and again at bloom. Trellis if space is limited. Harvest when fruits are aromatic, richly colored, and easily slip 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

How big do Rich Sweetness melons grow?

Rich Sweetness melons are small, typically 4–6 ounces each, making them perfect for single servings. Their bright, ornamental appearance and crisp texture make them as decorative as they are delicious.

Can Rich Sweetness melons be grown in containers?

Yes, their compact size and short vines make them excellent candidates for container gardening. Use a container with at least 5 gallons of soil and provide a small trellis for support.

Do Rich Sweetness melons cross with other varieties?

As a Cucumis melo type, they can cross-pollinate with other melons of the same species. To save pure seeds, isolate by distance or hand-pollinate and bag blossoms to prevent cross-pollination.

Browse our full range of melon seeds.

Customer reviews

3.6 / 5 58 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Striped and tiny: Fruit turns burgundy and gold; a hit in a child's garden.

  • Climbs with ease: Vigorous vines take to a trellis and set lots of fruit.

  • Loves the heat: Grows fast through Texas and Phoenix summers.

  • Drops when ripe: Melons fall off the vine on their own when ready.

  • Heads up: Many find the fruit bland and mostly seed; rest it a day.

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