Today marks the date for picking my first ripe Pride of Wisconsin cantaloupe (September 26, 2017). I had planted these late because of cold, wet, frosty weather in April & May. I knew then that I was taking a chance for enjoying any home grown melons. However, I am happy to report that my first one was picked yesterday (Tuesday) and I am happy with the results. The flesh is a golden deep orange color; and is surprisingly juicy and sweet. Also I am posting pictures in the database for it. I am saving seeds for next year too.

This cultivar was introduced in 1923 by the St. Louis Seed Company; and seeds were sold in the 1940s and 1950s by Burpee and others. It is considered an heirloom variety well worth growing. I am sold on the easy growth and development, as well as the delicious taste and sweetness. I believe it requires 85+ days to maturity which seems about right for mine which were planted late in mid-June.

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This is my first year growing 'Pride of Wisconsin' cantaloupes. With such a cold wet, spring my seeds were planted late. My hopes for any fruits were minimal due to late planting and abnormally cold, wet and frosty spring weather. At this point (August 30, 2017) I have several young fruits in the 1 to 2 pound range developing. I am hoping for good September weather to finish their ripening.

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