Melon 'Arancino' organic
identification
description
Organic 'Arancino' melon ( Cucumis melo ) from the seed company Gaia, a Sicilian sweetness with captivating aromas
The 'Arancino' melon is an Italian hybrid variety , originally from Sicily , renowned for its sweet and intensely fragrant taste. Its name, which means "little orange" in Italian , refers to the bright , vivid orange hue of its flesh, reminiscent of the famous Sicilian arancini .
Its fruits, averaging 2 to 4 pounds (900 g to 1.8 kg) and 6 to 8 inches in diameter, have a finely reticulated skin , sometimes slightly ridged. This firm, juicy melon is highly prized for its shelf life after harvest , making it an excellent choice for market gardeners and home gardeners .
Did you know?
Sicilian melons have been cultivated since ancient times and are considered among the tastiest in the world due to the island's hot, dry climate , which concentrates their natural sugars .
The 'Arancino' melon , thanks to its firm and sweet flesh, is often used in savory and sweet cooking , particularly in salads, frozen desserts or combined with raw ham for a refined Mediterranean starter .
Spread: Trailing plant with long stems
Plant height: 30 to 50 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 25 seeds
Companion plants: Tagetes, lettuce, radishes, catnip, alliums, corn, dill, sunflower, peas, oregano, nasturtium
Enemy plants: Cucumber, potato
Cultivation method
The 'Arancino' melon requires warmth and sun to develop its aromas and reach full maturity . It prefers a rich, light and well-drained soil , with good heat retention .
- Soak the seeds in warm water for 12 to 24 hours before sowing, and lightly scarify the hull to improve germination.
- Sow directly in open ground 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost , when the soil temperature exceeds 23°C .
- Or start indoors 4 weeks before planting date for faster development.
- Sow 1cm (1/2") deep , spacing plants 60-90cm (24-36") apart and rows 150cm (60") apart.
- Mulch the soil to retain moisture and protect the fruit.
- Water regularly , but moderately to avoid diseases. Reduce watering at maturity to intensify the flavor of the fruit.
Harvesting and conservation
- Harvest when the skin turns yellow and the fruit gives off a strong sweet aroma .
- Unlike other melons, the stem attachment remains firmly attached , so color and aroma are good indicators of ripeness.
- Keeps for up to 4 weeks in the fridge , but is best enjoyed chilled and at room temperature.
Ideas for use in the kitchen
- Serve it chilled, in slices , for a pure and delicious tasting experience.
- Pair it with Parma ham for a classic and refined Italian starter .
- Transform it into sorbet or granita , for a refreshing and fruity touch.
- Add it to fruit salads , where its natural sweetness contrasts with citrus fruits.
- Add it to a smoothie with Greek yogurt and honey for a nutritious and energetic cocktail .
