Question
Champaign, IL..What are some general instructions for growing cantaloupe? Can the plants be grown on a trellis or fence with any success? Concerned about limited space for growing. Thanks.

Answer
When faced with limited space, most gardeners grow cantaloupe, squash and melons vertically and opt for using the square foot method. Instead of the tradition two-foot spacing, the plants can be grown one foot apart.  

When growing vertically, you use trellises or metal poles and tie the vines loosely as they grow. To support the fruit once they get large, you must use rags or nylon stockings for each fruit to support the weight. The advantage of growing vertically, besides saving space, is that the cantaloupe never touch the ground, and therefore will not rot prematurely, nor will they be subjected to crawling insects.  

If you do not prefer vertical gardening, another option is to devote an entire section of the garden to cantaloupe and melons. Since these plants need to be spaced 2 feet apart and then sprawl over several feet, you cannot grow them in close proximity to other vegetables.  

I would highly suggest you read "Square Foot Gardening" by Mel Bartholomew. You can find it in paperback at all reputable bookstores and most libraries. Mel is really the godfather of the square-foot method of planting. He explains soil preparation, raised beds, construction of vertical structures, and the spacing and growing techniques for all vegetables, including melons. He also uses illustrations to show his methods.  

I hope this information helps. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.  

Regards,  

Mike