In cooler climates,seed may benefit from black plastic to warm the soil. Mulch also helps to conserve necessary moisture, control weeds,and keep the seed clean. Adequate moisture is particularly crucial as the vines begin to develop. After midsummer, pinch off blossoms and smaller fruits in order to direct the full energy to the large fruit,the smaller fruits will not have time to ripen before frost, and are no great loss.
As the melon ripens. It will turn slightly golden and become fragrant the stem should come off easily, and the blossom end should be slightly soft. The melon will keep for several weeks in a cool place.