Melon Seeds,
Tommy Apple
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Description
(Cucumis melo). Mr. Tommy Apple has tended this gourmet cantaloupe in his home garden by the banks of the Snake River in eastern Oregon since the 1970s, after a local nurseryman gave him the seeds. He was introduced to it as “Oriental melon;” the fruit was late to mature but remarkably tasty. This eastern Oregon landrace melon is oblong and varies in size from football sized to jumbo. Over the decades, Tommy has selected for earlier maturation, but he says the incredible, sweet, mellow flavor and refined texture are just as good as the original melons he received 50 years ago. For years, Tommy grew the seed of this amazing variety for us, harvesting the fruit by hand each morning, walking barefoot with a fruit sack slung around his shoulder. He said harvest is easy: the fruit picks itself! Indeed, the mature fruit turns a golden color and slips from the vine when perfectly ripe. Thanks to the hard work of Mr. Tommy Apple for stewarding this amazing heirloom.
Growing Tips:The Tommy Apple melon is a rare aromatic variety with firm flesh, and a subtly spicy, sweet flavor. This melon thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Regular, deep watering and mulching help maintain consistent soil moisture. Provide space for sprawling vines or use a trellis for vertical growth and improved airflow, which can reduce disease risks.
Plant Details
- Botanical Name
- Cucumis melo
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Growth Habit
- Vining
- Sun Requirement
- Full sun
- Days to Germinate
- 4–14
- Days to Maturity
- 80–90
- Planting Depth
- ½–¾ in.
- Plant Spacing
- 18–24 in.
- Ideal Temperature
- 70–95°F
- Frost Hardy
- No
When to Grow
How to Sow and Plant
How to Grow
How to Save Seeds
FAQ
What makes Tommy Apple melon unique?
Tommy Apple melons are slightly oblong with orange-stipled rinds and a unique sweet-and-spicy flavor. Fruits range from football sized to jumbo and ripen to a golden color, and their strong fragrance makes this a standout heirloom melon variety for specialty growers.
Can I grow Tommy Apple melon in a raised bed or container?
Yes, in a raised bed or a large container. Give each plant at least 15-20 gallons of rich, well-drained soil, water deeply and consistently, and if you trellis the vine, support each developing fruit in a cloth sling, since this variety's fruit can reach football size.
Do Tommy Apple melons need hand-pollination?
Not typically, as bees and other insects usually provide adequate pollination. However, in low-pollinator environments, hand-pollinating with a small brush can help ensure successful fruit set.
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