How to grow cucamelons in a raised bed

Cucamelons (mouse melons) are the garden's cutest novelty — grape-sized fruit that look like tiny watermelons and taste of cucumber with a lemony tang. Easy, productive and perfect for a raised-bed trellis.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun, 6+ hours
• Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth
• Time to harvest: 10–12 weeks
• Support: a trellis or netting

When to plant: Cucamelons are frost-tender — plant from spring into summer once it's warm. They grow from seed, or from the tubers they form, which can be saved and replanted. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

Growing it in a raised bed: Plant into rich mix at the base of a trellis — the delicate vines climb readily and are far less prone to mildew than cucumbers.

Watering and feeding: Keep the mix evenly moist; they're undemanding once established.

Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

Common diseases: the main ones are powdery mildew. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

Companion plants: A charming, kid-friendly climber; grows happily near cucumbers. See our companion planting guide.

Harvest and storage: Pick the little fruit when grape-sized and firm — pick often, as they're most crisp young. Eat whole, raw or pickled.

More growing guides: cucumbers, bitter melon and button squash.

Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Simon Speed, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.