Hearts of Gold is a netted melon with orange flesh, an old heirloom variety from 1890.
10 seeds
SOWING: Sow indoors or in a hotbed 4-5 weeks before planting out. Sow in pots, 1-2 cm deep, with 3-4 seeds in each. The best germination temperature is about 30°C. Thin to 1-2 plants per pot and keep them in a bright, airy spot. Harden them off before planting out, which is done once the soil has warmed up and all risk of frost has passed.
SPACING: A good spacing is 60-100 cm when the plants are left to trail along the ground. Trained up in a greenhouse, 40 cm is enough. The plant may need help to carry the fruit when it is tied up.
HARVEST: The melon is ripe when the grey-green colour turns to pale yellow or orange and the fruit comes away easily. The stalk now has cracks beside the fruit attachment, and the rich scent shows that the melon is ready to enjoy. Store it somewhere cool.
