Soil Preparation
Choose well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8
Enrich with compost or organic matter
Ensure good sunlight exposure (6–8 hours daily)
Planting
Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost
Space 3–4 feet apart in rows, 6 feet between rows
Plant seeds 1 inch deep
Watering
Water deeply and consistently
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
Reduce watering as fruits mature to increase sweetness
Growth & Harvest
Germination: 7–10 days
Time to maturity: 80–90 days
Harvest when the underside turns creamy yellow and sounds hollow when tapped
Tips for Best Yield
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Use organic fertilizer during the growing season
Hand-pollinate if bee activity is low
