White Lanzhou Melon with slice removed on a white background.
Melon Seeds, White Lanzhou
Whole and cut White Lanzhou Melon with Chinese accents on wooden background.
White Lanzhou Melons whole, halved and cut on a wooden board.
White Lanzhou Melon drink on light pastel background with flowers.
White Lanzhou Melon with slice removed on a white background.
Melon Seeds, White Lanzhou
Whole and cut White Lanzhou Melon with Chinese accents on wooden background.
White Lanzhou Melons whole, halved and cut on a wooden board.
White Lanzhou Melon drink on light pastel background with flowers.

Melon Seeds,
White Lanzhou

4.67 ReviewsSKU: #OML128Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Cucumis melo). A delicious melon that has made a trip around the world! This variety has been grown in Lanzhou, China since it was introduced there in the 1940s by U.S. Vice President Henry A. Wallace. The white-skinned, honeydew type melon has thick, heavy and sweet flesh that is rich in vitamin C. Wallace founded the Pioneer Hi-Bred Seed Company, and in the 1940s he shared the seeds of this melon with Chinese locals.

Growing Tips: Growing Tips: White Lanzhou melon is a treasured Chinese variety known for its pale green to creamy white rind and crisp, aromatic flesh. It thrives in warm climates with full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Consistent watering and good airflow help prevent disease. Trellising or giving vines space to sprawl encourages healthy fruit development and easier harvesting.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucumis melo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
4–14
Days to Maturity
75–90
Planting Depth
½–¾ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost or direct sow outdoors when soil reaches 70°F. Only transplant or sow after all frost danger 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 and 18–24 inches apart, with 4–6 feet between rows. For hill planting, place 2–3 seeds per mound and thin to one strong seedling. Protect early seedlings from pests and cool temperatures with floating row covers, removing them once flowering begins.

How to Grow

Provide deep watering once or twice weekly, avoiding water on the leaves. Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds. Fertilize with compost or an organic fertilizer at the vining and flowering stages. Fruits are ready to harvest when fragrant 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

Is the White Lanzhou melon sweet?

Yes, this variety offers a mild yet refreshing sweetness with crisp, juicy flesh. Its subtle aroma and smooth texture make it ideal for fresh eating, juicing, or light desserts.

Can I grow White Lanzhou melon vertically?

Yes, these vines respond well to vertical growing. Using a sturdy trellis improves air circulation, saves garden space, and helps protect fruit from pests and rot by lifting them off the ground.

How can I tell when White Lanzhou melons are ripe?

The rind turns from pale green to creamy white, the blossom end softens slightly and becomes fragrant, and the surface takes on a waxy rather than slick feel. This honeydew type does not slip from the vine, so cut the stem; avoid over-ripening, as the fruit can become watery or lose its firm texture.

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Customer reviews

4.6 / 5 7 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Best melon of summer: Sweet, dense honeydew flavor several call the best they have grown.

  • Huge fruit: Enormous melons that can run 5 to 15 pounds.

  • Vigorous vines: Vines start slow, then take off in heat and fill a raised bed.

  • Heads up: Slow to start and often one melon per vine; give it room and heat.

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