{"product_id":"melon-tommy-apple","title":"Melon Seeds, Tommy Apple","description":"\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003eCucumis melo\u003c\/em\u003e). 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowing Tips:\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":59511062495518,"sku":"AML131","price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0999\/2280\/5022\/files\/melon_tommy_apple.jpg?v=1782395179","url":"https:\/\/www.rareseeds.com\/products\/melon-tommy-apple","provider":"RareSeeds","version":"1.0","type":"link"}