Thorn Melon Farming

A couple of times during my childhood days, my late grandfather would ask me to get him some thorn melons from the farm. By then, we didn’t grow any thorn melons instead they would grow up by themselves and that meant I didn’t know where exactly in the farm I would find them. My grandfather was my first love if I may say and that meant I would do anything to make him happy. I would look through the farm the whole day until I could spot a kiwano fruit as they used to call it and then I would happily take it to my grandpa. This was one of his favourite fruits especially due to the fact that he was a cardiovascular patient.

Thorn Melon Fruits.

Thorn melon as the name suggests is a tropical fruit whose outer skin is covered in numerous sharp, spiky protrusions or thorns. It is also known as Kiwano or horned melon. A number of people do not have sufficient information on how Kiwano fruit is grown but you who is reading this is at a better position because in this article we will explore all you need to know about  thorn melon farming .Just keep reading.

Climate and soil requirements of thorn melon farming.

Thorn melons thrive in warm climates with temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The ideal soil for thorn melon cultivation is well-drained sandy loam that has a good organic content and a soil pH range from 6.0 to 7.5.

Land preparations for thorn melon planting

Thorn melons require a location that has a good sunlight exposure and good air circulation. After getting a good location, clear the land off any weeds, debris, or rocks that may obstruct planting operations or compete with the plants for nutrients. Plow the land to break up the soil and improve its structure. In the preparations, incorporate well- rotted manure or compost to improve on the soil fertility.

Propagation

Thorn melons are primarily propagated from seeds. Seeds can be sown directly into the prepared soil or started in nursery trays for later transplantation. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2 cm and spaced 1 to 1.5 metres apart in rows.

Irrigation

Thorn melons require regular watering, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. Drip irrigation or furrow irrigation systems are recommended to ensure efficient water use and prevent waterlogging.

Maturity period/harvesting.

In 70 to 90 days after planting your thorn melons will be ready for harvesting. You should harvest your kiwano fruits when they turn orange-yellow and the spikes on the skin start to soften. Cut the fruits from the vines using shears, leaving a short stem attached.

Ready to eat Kiwano fruit.

Market for your thorn melon fruits.

One thing that scares off many potential farmers is the market. But why is it so? Most farmers tend to look for markets when their product is ready for harvesting and that’s where they go wrong. Explore local markets, supermarkets, and export opportunities for your thorn melon fruits on time and build relationships with buyers and distributors to establish a steady market for your produce.

Nutritional benefits of Thorn Melon fruit.

It will not be fair enough to end this article without mentioning the nutritional benefits of Kiwano fruit. The fruit offers a range of nutritional benefits that include;

a)    Vitamin A-It is important for vision health, immune function, cell growth and development.

b)    Vitamin C-Thorn melons contains vitamin C that helps boost the immune system, promote collagen production for healthy skin, and protect cells from oxidative damage

c)     Potassium-Thorn melons are a good source of potassium, an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, maintain proper muscle and nerve function, and support heart health. Adequate potassium intake may help lower blood pressure and help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.

d)    Antioxidants-Thorn melons contain various antioxidants including beta-carotene and flavonoids, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation. Antioxidants protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Also Read:White Sapote Farming in Kenya.