Summary: Sweet, juicy vine-ripened canteloupes are a special treat from the summer garden. These delightful fruits require lots of heat and sunshine to mature to full sweetness and deep color. Canteloupes are delicious alone, but they can be dressed up as well. Serve chilled with lemon or lime wedges topped with yogurt, or mix with watermelon balls for a tasty and attractive salad or dessert.
When and where to plant:  Select a sunny, well drained location and sow seeds in the late spring when the soil has warmed. For an earlier crop start seeds indoors 4-5 weeks before planting outdoors. For best results, loosen soil with a spade or fork, fertilize with vegetable food and smooth with rake. Firm soil over seed and keep moist.
Care: Keep soil moist, and feed monthly. Mulch to conserve moisture.
Harvesting:  Pick when the blossom end is slightly springy and when the stem separates with a slight pull. For best flavor, ripen on the vine.
Health Note:  An excellent source of vitamin A; also supplies Calcium, Iron, and Vitamins B and C..