How to Grow Rockmelon in New Zealand
In Auckland sow from October into the warmest spot and pick early varieties to ripen before autumn cools. Harvest when the skin turns from grey-green to tan and the fruit slips easily from the vine. Ease off watering a week or two before harvest to concentrate the sweetness.
When to plant rockmelon in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | October, November |
| Auckland | October, November |
| Waikato & BoP | October, November |
| Wellington | November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | November, December |
| Canterbury | November, December |
| Otago & Southland | December |
| Central Otago | December |
Best rockmelon varieties for NZ
- Hales Best Jumbo — Adaptable rockmelon with sweet orange flesh, needs a long warm season. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
- Earlidew — Early honeydew-type melon with sweet pale-green flesh, good in cooler seasons. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow rockmelon
- Space plants about 100cm apart.
- Sow seed around 2cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 85 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 8 days.
Companion planting
Grow rockmelon near: Corn, Nasturtium.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Powdery mildew. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Rockmelon plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant rockmelon in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in October, November. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy rockmelon seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds.