Knowing when to pick a cantaloupe can make all the difference in its flavor. If you’re growing cantaloupe in your garden or simply selecting one at the store, here’s what you need to know to ensure you get the sweetest and juiciest fruit every time.

How to Tell if a Cantaloupe is Ripe on the Vine

When a cantaloupe is nearing ripeness, it will display certain signs. Look out for the following characteristics to determine if your cantaloupe is ready to be picked:

• Full netting on the rind: A ripe cantaloupe will have a rind with raised ridges all over it, resembling a netting pattern.

• Check for “full slip”: Gently tug on the stem end of the cantaloupe. If it comes off easily, it’s ready for harvest. This process is known as “full slip.” If it doesn’t come off effortlessly, it probably needs more time to ripen. Check again daily for optimal results.

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  Color under the netting: For traditional orange cantaloupes, the color of the rind underneath the netting will transition from green to beige, sandy gold, or creamy yellow when the fruit is ripe.

• Give it a sniff: Smell the blossom end of the fruit. A ripe cantaloupe will have a sweet, almost musky aroma. If there is little to no smell, it’s not yet ready.

• Check the seed packet: Refer to the days to maturity mentioned on the seed package. If the melon typically takes 80 days to mature and it has only been 60 days, it’s unlikely to be ripe.

Will Cantaloupes Ripen After Being Picked?

Unfortunately, cantaloupes do not significantly ripen post-harvest. They may become softer and juicier but won’t increase in sweetness.

Why Isn’t My Cantaloupe Sweet?

If your melons lack flavor and taste watery, it often indicates they were picked prematurely. Make sure your cantaloupe has full netting on the rind and exhibits the “full slip” sign for a sweet and juicy experience.

Can Cantaloupes Stay on the Vine for Too Long?

Generally, cantaloupes can stay on the vine until they are fully ripe. However, when they become excessively ripe, they may detach from the vine and fall onto the ground. If left unattended for too long, the flesh may turn mushy and eventually rot. It is advisable to check daily for ripe cantaloupes during harvest time.

How Long Can Cantaloupes Sit on the Kitchen Counter?

Uncut cantaloupes from your garden can be kept at room temperature for 10-14 days. However, if you purchased a cantaloupe from the produce section of a grocery store, it will have a shorter shelf life due to transportation. Once cut, all cantaloupes should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-5 days.

If your cantaloupe starts to taste slightly alcoholic, it is beginning to spoil. Depending on its condition, either consume it the same day or discard it in the compost.

Remember these tips to ensure you always enjoy the perfect cantaloupe at its peak ripeness. Happy picking!

Download the Printable Cantaloupe Growing Guide »

Source: https://t-tees.com
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