Jenny Lind Melon with coins for size reference and props on a white background.
Melon Seeds, Jenny Lind
Jenny Lind Melon - whole, balls, wedges and drink.
Jenny Lind Melon with coins for size reference and props on a white background.
Melon Seeds, Jenny Lind
Jenny Lind Melon - whole, balls, wedges and drink.

Melon Seeds,
Jenny Lind

3.810 ReviewsSKU: #AML117Min. seed count: 15
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Description

(Cucumis melo). Lusciously sweet, wildly productive, and easy to grow, this green-fleshed melon is named for Jenny Lind, the famous 19th century Swedish soprano whose American tour made her a superstar. The melon first appeared in Philadelphia markets around 1840. It was a new selection of an older variety called the Centre melon, said to have originated in Armenia. It is not entirely clear how the turban-shaped melon with the distinctive knob on its bottom end came to be named for the “Swedish Nightingale,” but references to it as such began appearing just a few years after Jenny Lind wrapped up her two-year tour of America in 1852. In its day, the Jenny Lind did not spread much beyond the mid-Atlantic region, though today it is a culinary classic!

Growing Tips: Jenny Lind melons are a historic heirloom variety prized for their small size, sweet green flesh, and unique turban-shaped blossom end. Plant them in fertile, well-drained soil with full sun and consistent watering. Use mulch to regulate soil moisture and temperature. Provide plenty of space for vines to sprawl or train them vertically to optimize airflow and garden space.

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

Sow seeds directly in the garden once the soil reaches at least 70°F and all danger of frost has passed. Start indoors 3–4 weeks early for a head start in cooler climates. 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, spacing them 18–24 inches apart in rows 4–6 feet apart. Alternatively, sow 2–3 seeds per hill and thin to the strongest seedling. Use floating row covers early in the season to protect against pests and cool nights, removing them when flowers appear to allow for pollination.

How to Grow

Water deeply once or twice a week to keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruit development. Fertilize when vines begin to run and again at bloom. Trellis if desired to support fruit and reduce disease. Harvest when the melon emits a sweet aroma and the stem slips cleanly from the fruit.

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 makes Jenny Lind melons unique?

Jenny Lind melons are easily recognized by their small size, sweet pale green flesh, and distinctive turban-like knob at the blossom end. They’re ideal for home gardens and heirloom melon collectors.

Can I grow Jenny Lind melons in containers?

Yes, Jenny Lind melons can be grown in large containers (minimum 5 gallons) with a trellis or support. Ensure good drainage, rich soil, and consistent watering for healthy growth and fruit production./p>

Do Jenny Lind melons cross-pollinate with other melons?

Yes, they can cross-pollinate with other Cucumis melo varieties. To save pure seeds, isolate plants by distance or use hand-pollination and bagging techniques to ensure varietal integrity.

Browse our full range of melon seeds.

Customer reviews

3.8 / 5 10 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Heavy yields: Vines keep setting fruit all summer; 15 melons from two plants.

  • Small and shareable: Personal-size melons; a good fit for small gardens.

  • Lime-green flesh: Sweet, creamy green flesh with a strong aroma when ripe.

  • Heads up: Flavor can be bland for some; melons crack easily when ripe.

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