100 days. Open-pollinated.
Moon and Stars is an open-pollinated, heirloom watermelon originally introduced by Peter Henderson & Co. in 1926 as 'Sun, Moon, and Stars'.
This unique variety, which the Henderson & Co. catalogue described as "An extraordinary variation that has such a delicious taste' disappeared from the public eye until it was rediscovered in 1997.
The name 'Moon and Stars' is derived from the scattering of yellow markings on its dark green rind, with the large spots resembling the moon and the smaller spots looking like a star-studded night sky.
Vine is compact, making it ideal for small gardens or container growing. Rind is thick and good for pickling, and the pinkish-red flesh is sweet and flavorful. Melons grow to about 40 pounds.
Moon & Stars Watermelon
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 3 to 12 Light Requirement: Full Sun Soil Type: Sandy, loamy, well-drained Sow Depth: 1/4 inch to 1 inch Plant Spacing: 3 to 5 feet in rows 6 to 8 feet apart Germination Temp: 65°F to 85°F Germination Time: 7 to 10 days Maturation: 100 days Growing Tips
If starting indoors, sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in individual peat pots, 3 seeds per pot, and use a heat mat to maintain a soil temperature of at least 80-85°F. Germination should occur within 7 to 14 days. Thin to the strongest plant once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, and transplant about a week after the last spring frost.
If starting outdoors, direct sow once the soil temperature reaches a minimum of 70°F. Choose a location with full sun and rich, loose soil, then sow 6 seeds 1 inch deep in hills. Space plants 3 to 5 feet apart in rows that are 6 to 8 feet apart. Thin to the strongest plants once the seedlings have emerged.
To protect the melons from soil contact, consider mulching around the base of each plant once the vines begin to develop. Keep the soil moist until the fruits are about the size of a tennis ball, then water only when the soil becomes completely dry.
Watermelons are ready to harvest when the tendril closest to the melon's stem dries up and turns brown, or when the underside of the melon turns from white to yellow.