How Ya Make a Melon Hammock, Huh?
Monty Don's Third Outdoor Melon Experiment
Here's the lowdown on crafting a netting hammock for melons straight from Monty Don's Gardeners' World melon trial (part three):
Melon Hammock Time
Why do this, you ask? Melons get heavy as they grow, and growing them vertically ain't no picnic. A netting hammock does the heavy lifting, keeping the fruit attached to the vine without a premature pull-off or plant damage. Plus, it improves airflow, cutting down on rot.
Materials for Melon Hammockin'
- Strong netting or mesh (garden or fruit netting, or even sturdy nylon stockings)
- Twine or garden string
- Scissors
- Support structure (trellis, bamboo canes, or frame)
- Optional: hooks or clips
Now Let's Make a Melon Hammock, Partner!
Choose Yer Net
- Grab a netting that's tough enough for the melon's weight. Fruit netting works well.
- Nylon stockings come in handy for single fruit supports—they're elastic, ya know?
Size it Up
- Cut a square or rectangular netting that's roughly 3 times the diameter of the fruit.
- Give the fruit some wiggle room for growth.
Form That Hammock
- Lay the netting flat and pop the fruit in the center.
- Fold up the corners or edges of the netting around the fruit for a snug fit.
Tie Her Down
- Tie the edges together using twine or string.
- Make a loop or knot at the top for hanging the hammock from the support structure.
Attach That Bad Boy
- Use string, clips, or hooks to secure the hammock to your trellis or frame.
- Make sure it's balanced so the melon hangs steady, not swingin' like a monkey on a branch.
Adjustments
- Regularly check the hammock.
- Loosen or adjust the ties if the melon grows or seems squished.
Tips from Monty Don’s Trial
- Monty stresses supportin' melons early to keep the vine from snapmin' under the fruit's weight.
- Opt for breathable netting to allow air circulation and cut down on fungal diseases.
- Combine this method with good irrigation and feedin' for best results.
- Position the melon hammocks at a height comfortable for inspection and pickin'.
In a Nutshell
Makin' a netting hammock is easy peasy. Your melons will be all set for a happy, healthy, flavorful grow! Need more help? I can give advice on buildin' your trellis or choosin' the best melon varieties for your garden.
Here's a perfect lifestyle solution for home-and-garden enthusiasts: try creating a melon hammock for better gardening. Improve your home-and-garden experience by learning how to make a melon hammock, as detailed in Monty Don's 'Gardeners' World' melon trial.
