Organic 'Oka' Melon
Organic 'Oka' melon (Cucumis melo) from the seed company Gaia, a heritage Quebec melon with orange, sweet and fragrant flesh
The 'Oka' melon is a variety selected in 1912 by a Trappist monk at Oka Abbey in Quebec. Recognizable by its green skin and juicy, sweet, and highly aromatic orange flesh , it remains one of the country's most iconic heritage melons. Its rich, sweet flavor has made it a favorite of market gardeners for decades. Productive and vigorous, it offers a high yield while maintaining excellent taste, even in northern climates.
Companion plants : Marigold, Lettuce, Radish, Catnip, Alliums, Corn, Dill, Sunflower, Peas, Oregano, Nasturtium
Nefarious plants : Cucumber, Potato
Spread/Habit : Vigorous creeping vine
Plant height : 20 to 30 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Quebec heritage variety, green skin, sweet and aromatic orange flesh, high yield
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Sweet, juicy and fragrant flesh
Cold tolerance : Not hardy
Farming method
Soak the seeds for up to 24 hours in lukewarm water and lightly scarify them to encourage germination. Sow directly outdoors 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost , or start seeds indoors 4 weeks before planting out. Sow the seeds 1.25 cm deep. Place in full sun (level 3) with moderate watering (level 2). Space plants 90 to 105 cm apart, with 150 cm between rows. Germination takes 4 to 10 days at temperatures between 21 and 30 °C (optimum 23–30 °C).
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit turns yellow , a sign of ripeness, or when it begins to detach slightly from the vine. Ripe melons can be stored for about 4 weeks in the refrigerator.
Usage ideas
• Sliced fresh to enjoy its unique aroma
• In summer salads with mint or basil
• In smoothies or flavored sorbets
• As an accompaniment to mild cheeses
• Diced and sweetened in fruit salads
The 'Oka' melon is a Quebec horticultural treasure: sweet, aromatic, and historically rich. A heritage variety perfect for northern gardens and lovers of flavorful melons.
