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Northern Cambria, Pa.

Some time ago someone, I think maybe one of the Michigan guys, mentioned using weed fabric under their melons. Just wondering how many out there are using it or have tried it and what your thoughts were on it. I am trying it this year. So far so good.

6/30/2011 1:57:54 PM

sevierville, Tn

Larry, do you mean under the fruit or the whole plant ? I use it under the plant, but have to watch for the extra heat down here. You probally don't have that problem.

6/30/2011 2:27:33 PM

Northern Cambria, Pa.

Under the plant.

6/30/2011 2:38:07 PM

Cleveland, Tenn

If you are using black weed block fabric a layer of straw will keep it from heating up and keeps the vines off the hot fabric.

6/30/2011 5:35:11 PM

formerly RGG

If you use the premium product your plants may have a difficult time rooting through it. I cut holes in mine at he places I want roots. I think if you want rooted plants, pulling the straw away from the vine and putting the vine on top of the dirt will be helpful. You will probably see very few weeds in your patch using landscape fabric.

6/30/2011 5:52:52 PM

Bowdon, GA

Agree with all, They will root through cheap fabric. And its ussually good enough to hold weeds out for one season. But agree if you use good stuff punch small holes at the nodes. Straw or bird netting will also help them anchor until they root, It's a little to slick for them early on without something.

7/1/2011 12:07:57 AM

Northern Cambria, Pa.

Thanks guys. I will try punching in a few holes. Heat not a problem here lately, 46° here this AM.

7/1/2011 8:22:10 AM

sevierville, Tn

Wow, 46 ! Ok no heat problem in PA LOL. The key is the weeds. You can not grow great melons in a patch full of weeds/grass. I like the fabric alot. i'm trying the straw to keep them cooler. the only problem i see is if it rains too much & stays wet. I'm hoping for a dry summer from here on out.

7/1/2011 3:12:36 PM

Bowdon, GA

The cloth may help with the temps too. Last year I set a thermometer on a section of bare cloth. Air temp was 100 and temp on the cloth was 120. I make sure I have some straw on it now, but looks like no fear of burning at 46! I forgot what 46 feels like LOL

7/2/2011 1:30:31 PM