Cantaloupe.

Plant

Wait for warm soil — cantaloupe stalls in cold ground. Black plastic mulch adds heat and speeds ripening.

Care

Consistent water while fruit is developing; reduce as fruits near ripeness for sweetness. Support fruit off soil (jar lid, straw).

Harvest

Stem slips easily from the fruit with gentle prodding. Smell is deep and floral when ripe.

Preserve

Best fresh.