Melothria Scabra Vegetable Seeds

Also known as mouse melon or Mexican sour gherkin, Melothria scabra is a unique climbing plant that produces miniature cucumber-like fruits with a refreshing, slightly tangy taste. These bite-sized vegetables resemble tiny watermelons and are perfect for snacking, salads, and pickling. Easy to grow and highly productive, they thrive in warm conditions and add an ornamental touch to trellises or containers.

Features & Specifications

• Botanical Name: Melothria scabra

• Common Name: Mexican sour gherkin / Mouse melon

• Plant Type: Warm-season climbing annual vine

• Fruit: Small cucumber-like fruits, 23 cm long

• Flavor: Crisp texture with a tangy, refreshing taste

• Growth Habit: Vigorous climber, ideal for trellises

• Height: Up to 23 m (610 ft) with support

• Sun Requirements: Full sun

• Soil Preference: Well-drained, good soil

• Uses: Snacking, fresh salads, pickling, ornamental growing

Planting & Sowing Instructions

1. When to Sow: Start indoors 34 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors after frost danger has passed.

2. Soil Preparation: Use fertile, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.

3. Sowing Depth: Plant seeds 1 cm ( inch) deep.

4. Germination Time: 714 days at 2024C (6875F).

5. Transplanting: Harden off seedlings before planting outdoors, spacing plants 3045 cm (1218 inches) apart near a trellis or support.

6. Care Tips: Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture. Mulch to retain soil humidity. Train vines to climb for better yield and air circulation. Harvest fruits when they reach 23 cm for the best flavor and texture.