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Thursday, 19 January 2012
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 Summer wouldn’t be the same without the sweet, smooth, musky flavours of rock melon either tossed into a wild fruit salad mix or enjoyed for its own fragrant juiciness. In fact, rock melons cut in half (seeds scooped out) and the hollow filled with port make a heady meal starter – very yummy too!
The origin of the rock melon is somewhat hazy – some say Africa, others say Asia Minor. That’s because at archaeological sites cucumber and rock melon seeds look very alike making it hard to distinguish between them, hence the origin debate.
There was a time when rock melons were also considered alien in this country. However, they are now prevalent and commonly seen in supermarkets or greengrocers where they sit pretty among other melons (or cantaloupes) such as honey dew, prince melon and, of course, the well known watermelon.
Easily recognised for their coarse, grey/green netted skin and rich, peachy coloured flesh, which, when ripe, is anything but rock hard, this luscious summer fruit grows best in New Zealand’s temperate north.
A steamy little number, they like it hot and humid. However, rock melons can be grown further south but may require glasshouse conditions. This in turn can mean pollination problems or considerations if there are no bees about.
Planting
If planting in early spring when frosts are still about, seed trays will be necessary but at this time of year North Island soils should be nice and warm making it possible to plant directly into the ground. Rock melons need soil temperatures of between 21 to 32 degrees Celsius.
They also like well drained soil which is neutral to slightly acidic. Seeds should be planted about one metre apart and about 2-4cm deep. What’s more, if gardeners adopt a policy of ‘warm, watered and well fed’, then their melons will, indeed rock when harvested.
If hand pollinating, use a soft brush.
Harvest
Usually takes about 75-115 days. They are ready when fruit falls from the vine; to test for ripeness tap with the knuckles. A dull sound indicates ripeness.
Culinary hints
Perfect as a breakfast or lunchbox treat, rock melons also make great sorbet and can be used in making yoghurt too. They work well with ginger and mint and complement chicken salads and other chicken dishes.
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Grow your Own 
