We don't have beds dug into the floor of the greenhouse yet, so we'll try 5-gallon buckets of luscious composted manure. Last year's melons did fine in a container. as long as we kept them well-watered.
Here's a description of Emerald Gem:
'Emerald Gem', also known as 'Netted Gem' is an heirloom variety of melon generally weighing 3 pounds, with a globular shape. The melon is ribbed evenly, and the greenish skin has fine netting. The flesh is pale orange in color, and very sweet with a spicy aroma reminiscent of cinnamon. Melons can be a challenge to grow, so dependant are they on good soil and hot weather. Starting them in pots can also be useful, as the roots will be less disturbed by transplanting. Vine productivity can be improved by pruning. When the vines are 2.5 feet long, remove the end buds, which will encourage lateral growth. Keeping the vines short will preserve the plant's resources for the fruit.
We got our seeds from Seed Savers, and here's what they have to say about this tasty-sounding melon:
Introduced by W. Atlee Burpee in 1886 from seed sent by William Voorhees of Benzie County, Michigan. The most popular melon of that period, hailed as "altogether unapproached in delicious flavor and luscious beyond description." Pale-orange rich juicy flesh is sweet and somewhat spicy in flavor. Very heavy producer, compact plants. Fruits weigh 2-3 pounds. 70-90 days.
