Mulching with black plastic will serve multiple purposes: it will warm the soil, hinder weed growth and keep developing fruits clean
While melon plants are growing, blooming, and setting fruit, they need 1 to 2 inches of water per week
Water at the vine s base in the morning, and try to avoid wetting the leaves and avoid overhead watering
Reduce watering once fruit are growing
Dry weather produces the sweetest melon
Pruning isn t necessary, but vine productivity may be improved if you do not allow lateral (side) vines to grow and stick to the main vine When the plant is young, just cut off the end buds as they form (before the side shoots become vines)
As fruit is ripening, prevent rotting by gently lifting it and putting some cardboard or straw between the fruit and the soil