Have you ever heard of cucamelons? This cute and tiny fruit looks like a mini-watermelon but tastes like a cucumber and a lime.

Also referred to as “Mexican sour gherkins,” cucamelons are a bit bizarre looking, but they are not some GMO hybrid. In fact, this delicacy is certainly something you should add to your normal allotment.

Jeannette Lambert / Shutterstock.com

Cucamelons contain a lot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Consequently, they help lower the risk of stroke, cancer, and heart diseases. So, how to grow these tiny treasures? There are some easy steps to follow.

1. Purchasing the seeds.

Studio-Neosiam / Shutterstock.com

Unfortunately, it’s unlikely you will find them at local stores. Instead, you can buy seeds on the internet with the help of Google search. Don’t worry, they are not expensive!

2. Considering climate.

bluedog studio / Shutterstock.com

It’s better to start growing cucamelons in April or May. Surely, you can plant them directly in the ground. But to avoid the danger of frost, it’s better to start them indoors and then move the plants outdoors.

This fruit requires at least 70 days of warm weather and soil temperatures that are 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Choosing a planting location.

The growing site should get full southern exposure with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. In addition, make sure you allow at least 12 square inches of space for each plant.

4. Installing a support structure.

amenic181 / Shutterstock.com

Cucamelons can reach 10-feet height, so they will need to be pinched out when reaching 8 feet. You can install a tomato cage or a small trellis for them to grow on.

5. Amending the soil.

Amend the soil with aged manure or compost prior to planting. 2 months after planting, the fruit will need a 3-inch side-dressing of compost each month.

6. What about water?

Strom / Shutterstock.com

An inch of water every 6 days will be enough during the summer months. When it’s hot, increase water to twice a week.

7. What about pests?

Good news, cucamelons are ignored by all pests and are resistant to droughts and diseases!

8. When to harvest?

Derek Brumby / Shutterstock.com

In about 3 months, you can harvest the fruit (once it reaches a size of a grape). Simply pick it off!

How to use cucamelons?

yingko / Shutterstock.com

You can add the fruit to a variety of dishes, such as salads, stir-fries, and salsas. Or you can even eat them raw or sprinkle with some herbs.

Just like cucumbers, cucamelons can be pickled too. So it all depends only on your imagination.

This material is provided for informational purposes only. Some of the products and items discussed in this article may cause an allergic reaction and damage your health. Before use, consult a certified technician/specialist. The editorial board is not responsible for any harm or other consequences that may be caused by the use of the methods, products or items described in this article.