When should I plant cantaloupe seeds?

Start cantaloupe seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before your last frost date in biodegradable pots (melons don't like root disturbance), or direct sow outdoors after soil has warmed to at least 70°F and all frost danger has passed.

How long do cantaloupes take to mature?

Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe matures in 80-90 days from transplanting. Seeds germinate in 7-10 days when soil temperature is 70-85°F. Plan for approximately 3 months from transplant to harvest.

How do I know when cantaloupe is ripe?

Ripe Hearts of Gold Cantaloupes slip easily from the vine with gentle pressure (called "full slip"), the background color under the netting turns from green to tan/yellow, and the blossom end feels slightly soft. The distinctive sweet aroma is also a good indicator.

What growing conditions do cantaloupes need?

Cantaloupes need full sun, rich well-draining soil (sandy loam is ideal), consistent moisture (especially during fruit development), and warm temperatures. They grow best when soil temperature stays above 70°F throughout the growing season.

Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe Melon Seeds / Cucumis melo

Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe produces sweet, aromatic 5-6 inch melons with deep orange flesh and a small seed cavity for maximum fruit. Also known as “Hoodoo,” this heirloom variety is a fantastic choice for midwestern gardeners, featuring heavily netted husks, vigorous vines, and blight resistance for reliable harvests.

26 in stock

Description

Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo), also known as “Hoodoo,” brings exceptional flavor and productivity to home gardens. This heirloom variety produces round melons maturing at 5-6 inches in diameter and 3-5 pounds with sweet, deep orange flesh that’s incredibly aromatic and firm. The small seed cavity leaves more room for delicious fruit, making every melon a treat. The heavily netted husk with medium ribs signals perfect ripeness and adds classic cantaloupe appearance.

Originally developed for midwestern gardens, Hearts of Gold thrives in rich sandy soils with full sun and consistent moisture. The vigorous vines are quite productive, reliably producing multiple melons per plant throughout the growing season. This variety shows good resistance to blight, a common disease that plagues melon crops in humid conditions. Hearts of Gold melons are excellent for fresh eating, fruit salads, and smoothies. The firm flesh also makes them a good choice for short-distance shipping if you’re growing for market or sharing with friends and neighbors.

Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe Plant Details

Type: Annual vine
Fruit Size: 5-6 inches diameter, 3-5 pounds
Sun: Full sun
Days to Maturity: 80-90 days from transplant
Days to Germination: 7-10 days

Growing information:

Start indoors about 3-4 weeks before last frost or direct sow once soil reaches 70°F. Sow seeds ½ to 1 inch deep.

You’ll find more information on growing melons on our website here.

Ready to Grow Sweet Delicious Cantaloupe?

Add Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe seeds to your garden for sweet, aromatic melons all summer long. This productive heirloom variety rewards you with flavorful harvests that taste like summer!

Terms of Sale

You will receive a minimum of 500 mgs of seeds, approximately 20 seeds, as well as instructions for planting and care.

Shipping Cost is Flat Rate and covers all seeds purchased in a single transaction from Southern Garden, with no additional charges no matter how many you order.