Honeydew MelonPosted 10 years ago under Uncategorized

Honeydew melon is a variety of muskmelon that is very sweet in flavor and provides a number of health benefits. Because of its high water content, it is low in calories. Its high antioxidant contents can help fight colds, regulate blood pressure, increase energy levels, remove toxins from the body, and boost the health of the brain. ¹

Taxonomy

Honeydew melon is a variety of the Cucumis melo, or muskmelon.

Kingdom (Plantae) → Angiosperms → Eudicots ­→ Rosids → Order (Cucurbitales) → Family (Cucurbitaceae) → Genus (Cucumis) → Species (Cucumis melo)

Description

Honeydew melons grow on vines along the ground. The leaves are bright green and large. The melon itself is typically larger than a cantaloupe and weighs between 4 to 8 pounds. The skin turns from green to white and then yellow and becomes hard as it ripens. The inside flesh is a pale green color and very sweet. ²

Distribution

Honeydew melon is one cultivated variety of the muskmelon that originated in southern France and Algeria. Today, it grows in climates around the world that are hot and dry. ²Honeydew melons thrive in fertile soils that are well-drained and slightly acidic and need full sun. (4) ³

Nutritional Information

Honeydew melon is a valuable source of nutrition including dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a rich source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin K. (5) ⁴Honeydew also contains antioxidants and phytonutrients. It helps maintain blood pressure and helps the body produce collagen for the skin and repair damaged tissue. (6) ⁵

Commercial Cultivation

Honeydew melons are typically grown from seed or transplanting. If grown from the transplanting method, the growing season can be extended by up to a month. (7) ³ The leading producers of honeydew in the United States are California, Arizona, and Texas. (8) ⁶

Diseases, Pests, Predators

Honeydew melons are susceptible to diseases and pests that affect melons and cucumbers. Common insects include squash vine borers and striped cucumber beetles. Common diseases include bacterial wilt, powdery mildew, fungal leaf spots, and fruit rots. These conditions can be aggravated by wet soil conditions. (9) ³

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