Bees will pollinate these female flowers, and the fruit then develops. A. Muskmelon plants can be trained to a fence or trellis. Soon after the fruit begins to enlarge, they should be supported with mesh bags tied to the supporting structure. Muskmelons will not cross-pollinate with cucumbers, watermelons, squash or pumpkins. Melons are not bitter because of cross-pollination.
Bees are necessary for the pollination of all cucurbits.
Most problems with fruit set in cantaloupes are caused by a lack of pollinating insects when the plants bloom. A. A cantaloupe is ready to harvest when the stem easily separates from the fruit. To avoid over-ripening, harvest cantaloupes before they naturally separate from the vine. Check maturity of cantaloupe by placing your thumb beside the stem and gently applying pressure to the side. If the stem separates easily, the cantaloupe is ripe.