Melon plants are frost susceptible and low temperatures can cause growth abnormalities, poor flower and fruit set. Insects, in particular bees, are important to aid pollination and fruit set.

The sweeter the melon, the better the end quality. Sweetness is assessed by Total Soluble Solids (TSS) content. This can be measured by hand refractometers.

Melons are best packed in the field to minimize bruising during transportation. They should never be stacked on their ends. The blossom end, in particular, is weak and can be crushed.Melons are also susceptible to chilling damage, so storage temperatures...

The vast majority of melons – and virtually all watermelons - are produced in the field. Some cooler climate crops are grown under tunnels to bring forward harvest and catch early markets.