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Melon Seeds,
Hale's Best 45

4.513 ReviewsSKU: #AML101Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Cucumis melo). A classic, silky-fleshed super sweet market muskmelon from the early 20th century. In 1923, I.D. Hale encountered a Japanese American market farmer growing this variety in Imperial County (near Brawley, California). This sweet, smooth, orange-fleshed melon has been a staple for home and market growers since!

Growing Tips: Hale’s Best 45 melons are a reliable heirloom variety known for their sweet orange flesh and netted rind. They grow best in fertile, well-drained soil and thrive in hot, sunny conditions. Water consistently at the base to avoid mildew, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and control weeds. Provide ample spacing and airflow for disease prevention.

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
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors when soil temperatures reach at least 70°F. Transplant seedlings carefully after the last frost. 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 in rows spaced 4–6 feet apart. Space plants 18–24 inches apart within rows. Alternatively, plant 2–3 seeds per hill and thin to the strongest seedling. Use row covers during early growth stages to protect from pests and speed germination, but remove once plants begin to flower.

How to Grow

Keep the soil evenly moist, watering deeply 1–2 times per week. Apply organic fertilizer when vines begin to run and again at flowering. Prune excess vines if needed to focus plant energy on fruit development. Harvest when the melon slips easily from the vine and emits a strong, sweet fragrance.

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

What is the average size of a mature Hale’s Best 45 melon?

Mature Hale’s Best 45 melons typically weigh between 3 and 5 pounds. They are known for their round to oval shape, deeply netted rind, and juicy, sweet orange flesh.

Can Hale’s Best 45 melons be grown on a trellis?

Yes, these melons can be grown vertically on a strong trellis. Support developing fruits with slings or nets to prevent vine breakage and improve air circulation, especially in smaller gardens.

Do Hale’s Best 45 melons require pollinators?

Yes, this variety depends on bees and other pollinators to set fruit. For optimal pollination, plant pollinator-friendly flowers nearby and avoid using pesticides during the bloom period.

Browse our full range of melon seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 13 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Classic cantaloupe flavor: Sweet, juicy and smooth, how a cantaloupe should taste.

  • Easy to grow: Takes off once heat arrives, even after a cold spring.

  • Heavy producer: Three plants gave ten melons; fruits run 2 to 7 pounds.

  • Handles heat: Grows well in hot, dry climates with steady water.

  • Heads up: Prone to powdery mildew in humid summers; keep the leaves dry.

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