- Originating in the 1800's, this melon ripens late and must be harvested before the first fall frost.
Melon Seeds - Late Valencia
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100 days. Cucumis melo var. inodorus. Valencia Late Melon Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, heirloom, open-pollinated. This crop is suitable for garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Late Valencia is a winter melon that produces dark-green melons with pale-green flesh that sweetens further in storage. Valencia Melons are said to be a close relative of melons grown by Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. ~840 seeds/oz.
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Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF (opens in a new tab) 
Growing Valencia Late Melon in the Vegetable Garden
Valencia Late is a true winter melon that needs a long, warm season. In most climates, direct sow outdoors after all danger of frost when soil has warmed to at least 70 F. Sow 3-4 seeds per hill, 0.5-1 inch deep, spacing hills 3-4 feet apart in rows 5-6 feet apart. Thin to the strongest 1-2 plants per hill once seedlings are established.
In short-season areas, start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before transplanting, using biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance. Harden off seedlings and transplant after nights stay reliably above 55 F. Choose a sunny site with fertile, well-drained soil; work in compost or aged manure before planting. Mulch between rows to conserve moisture and keep fruit clean, and consider using black plastic or row covers early in the season to boost soil warmth.
Harvesting of Valencia Late Melon
Valencia Late ripens later than many melons and is usually harvested just before the first fall frost. Fruits are mature when the rind is fully dark green, the skin loses surface gloss, and the blossom end slightly softens. Unlike muskmelons, winter melons may not slip from the vine on their own; cut fruits with a short stem attached.
Handle fruit carefully to avoid bruising and cure in a warm, dry place for about a week, then move to a cool, well-ventilated area for longer storage.
About Valencia Late Melon Garden Seeds
Also known as Valencia Winter Melon, this heirloom dates back to at least the early 1800s and is connected to melons grown at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Compact vines set coconut-shaped, dark green fruits with light green, sweet flesh prized for its keeping quality.
Valencia Late is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to extend melon season into fall and early winter. Stored properly, fruits can keep for months, offering fragrant, refreshing slices long after other melons are gone. Its heat tolerance and storage ability make it a distinctive specialty crop for home gardens and small farms.
Tips From Our Gardeners
"Give Valencia Late the warmest, sunniest spot you have and plant early enough to beat your first frost. Hills on raised beds or mounded rows help soils warm quickly and drain well, which is key for strong vines and flavorful storage fruit."
Valencia Late Melon Seeds Per Package:
- 3 g Packet - Approximately 90 Seeds
- 0.25 oz - Bulk - Approximately 210 Seeds
- 1 oz - Bulk - Approximately 840 Seeds
- 4 oz - Bulk - Approximately 3,360 Seeds
- 1 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 13,440 Seeds
- 5 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 67,200 Seeds
Non-GMO Valencia Late Melon seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping (opens in a new tab) on qualifying orders.
Basic Info
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Latin Name: | Cucumis melo var. inodorus |
| Valencia Late Melon Color: | Dark green husk with pale to light green flesh |
| Valencia Late Melon Flavor: | Sweet, aromatic flesh that develops richer flavor in storage |
Growing Info
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Hardiness Zone: | Annual 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 |
| Days to Maturity: | 100 days |
| Days to Germination: | 7-14 |
| Seeding Depth: | 0.5-1 inch |
| Plant Spacing: | 24-36 inches |
| Row Spacing: | 60-72 inches |
| Plant Height: | 12-18 inches |
| Growth Habit: | Vining, spreading |
| Soil Preference: | Warm, fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; pH 6.0-7.5. |
| Temperature Preference: | Warmer 70-90 F |
| Germination Temperature: | 75-90 F |
| Light Preference: | Full Sun |
Other Info
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Direct Sow: | Yes, after danger of frost when soil is thoroughly warm. |
| Start Indoors: | Optional, 3-4 weeks before last frost for short seasons; transplant carefully. |
| Plant Width: | 48-72 inches |
| Deer Resistant: | No |
| Pests and Diseases: | Watch for cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and aphids; provide airflow to reduce powdery mildew. |
| Garden Size: | Garden Plot, Raised Bed, Greenhouse |
| Climate Tolerance: | Heat, light drought once established |
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