Description : The Charentais melon is a variety of melon much appreciated for its sweet, fragrant flesh and delicate flavour. Its distinctive feature is its rough, ribbed skin, which is light green to orange-yellow when ripe.
Sow outdoors or in pots
Sowing advice :
- Direct sowing in the ground: Plant the seeds after the last frosts, 2 to 3 seeds per hole at a depth of 2 to 3 cm, spaced 120 cm apart. When the plants have developed 2 to 3 true leaves, thin out to leave one plant per hole.
- Sowing in pots: Sow under cover in April for transplanting in May, in individual pots. Transplant carefully when plants have at least 2 true leaves.
Sowing period (under cover): April
Sowing period (outdoors): May, June
Harvesting period: July, August
Growing: in the garden
Exposure: sunny
Water requirement: medium to high, especially during fruit formation
Soil type: rich in organic matter, well drained
Historical origin of the variety: The Charentais melon originated in the Charente region of France. It is famous for its sweet flavour and delicate aroma, making it a fruit appreciated in many parts of the world.
Use: The Charentais melon is eaten fresh, as a dessert or starter, on its own or in a fruit salad. It can also be used in smoothies or refreshing cocktails. It is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants and fibre.
