2021 Cantaloupe Variety Evaluation in Indiana

Indiana ranks sixth in cantaloupe production in the US. A total of 1,800 acres of cantaloupes were planted in Indiana with a production value of $8.6 million in 2018 (USDA 2021). Melon produced in Indiana is primarily eastern-type cantaloupes. Traditional eastern-type cantaloupes have less pronounced netting, larger fruit size, softer flesh and shorter shelf life compared with western-type cantaloupes. They are harvested at quarter-slip to full-slip stage, and require frequent harvest. Recently, extended shelf life varieties have been developed and are becoming attractive in the eastern market. This variety trial included 11 traditional eastern-type cantaloupes, as well as extended shelf-life cantaloupes. Yield and fruit quality parameters were evaluated