Hale's Best Jumbo Muskmelon

(Cucumis melo) Old-time favorite developed in 1924 and still popular today.  Produces 4-5 pound melons with lights ribs, durable coarse netting and sweet orange flesh.  A reliable early variety for home gardeners.  86 days to harvest.  25 seeds per packet.

CULTURE:  Direct sow seeds outdoors 2 weeks after last frost, once soil temps have reached 70 degrees.  Sow 3-5 seeds per hill with 2 to 4 feet between hills and to 3 to 4 feet between rows.  Under ideal conditions germination will occur in 5-8 days.  Melons are ready to harvest once the melon "slips" from the vine when gently tugged.  Don't leave them too long, however, as ripe melons have a sweet aroma that attracts insects.