Mouse Melon (Cucamelon) – Offered by Ferme Tourne-Sol
(Melothria scabra)
The mouse melon , also called cucamelon or Mexican cucumber , is a little marvel of the vegetable garden ! Resembling a miniature watermelon 2 to 5 cm (1-2 in) long , it surprises with its refreshing taste of slightly lemony cucumber . Very productive and vigorous , it grows as a climbing plant , producing an abundance of fruit throughout the summer. Little known, but easy to grow , the cucamelon is an ideal choice for those who want to stand out from the crowd in the garden .
Type : Perennial climbing plant (grown as an annual in cold climates)
Plant habit : Creeping or climbing (needs a trellis)
Spread : 1.5 to 3 m
Plant height : Up to 2 m with staking
Quantity per pack : 25 seeds
Maturity : 70 to 80 days
Companion plants : Corn, sunflower, bean, nasturtium
Enemy plants : Potato (susceptibility to the same diseases)
Cultivation method
Mouse melons like heat and sun , requiring rich, well-drained, slightly sandy soil . Start seedlings indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost , then transplant them into the open ground after the last frost, when night temperatures are above 15°C . Space the plants 30 to 50 cm apart and provide them with a sturdy trellis , as they climb quickly. Moderate and regular watering is recommended to encourage abundant production. The first fruits appear after about 70 to 80 days , and the more they are harvested, the more the plant continues to produce.
Use and benefits
Cucamelon is enjoyed fresh as a snack, in salads, salsas or marinades . Its slightly acidic cucumber flavor makes it an excellent addition to cocktails and infused waters . It can be fermented like pickles to extend its shelf life. Very low in calories but rich in fiber, antioxidants and vitamins , it is an excellent ally for a healthy and balanced diet.
Thanks to its rapid growth, high productivity and originality , the mouse melon is an essential experience for any curious gardener!
