Many people have no idea about
the pepino melon. Have you ever heard the name of this melon? Maybe
you have heard, and that is why you are looking for more information to know
more about this unique fruit. Yes, you have come to the right
place. In this article, you will be able to know many unknown facts about
the pepino melon, including its amazing health benefits, its taste, and
even tips on growing and caring for it. For that, you have to read the
full article. So, let's enter the unknown world of this fascinating fruit.
Pepino Melon
What is Pepino Melon?
Scientifically, pepino melon
is known as Solanum muricatum. It is a small and egg-shaped fruit from the
nightshade family. It is native to South America, particularly Peru and Chile.
It has smooth and light-yellow skin with purple streaks. The fruit is juicy and
mildly sweet, Usually, its flavor is a mix of melon and cucumber flavors.
Though pepino melon is not as popular as other fruits, it is gaining attention
for its taste and health benefits.
Pepino Melon Nutrition
The pepino melon is also known
as sweet cucumber. It boasts a variety of essential nutrients that can
complement a healthy diet. Usually, pepino melon calories, protein, fat,
dietary fiber, water content, vitamins A, C, K, B6, niacin, riboflavin,
potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, etc. It is rich in antioxidants and low in
calories.
Pepino Melon Benefits
Pepino melon is not only
delicious but also beneficial for health. Now let’s know the marvelous health
benefits of pepino melon.
1. Helps Fight Free Radicals and Reduce Oxidative Stress
Pepino melon is packed with
vitamin C, beta-carotene, and other antioxidants. These help fight free
radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress, slow aging, and prevent
diseases.
2. Boosts Immunity
The high vitamin C in pepino
melon boosts immunity. It helps protect your body from infections and common
illnesses.
3. Helps in Digestion
The fiber content in pepino
melon keeps the digestive system healthy. It can help relieve constipation,
keep the intestines healthy, and increase the absorption of nutrients.
4. Keeps the Heart Healthy
The potassium in pepino melon
is very beneficial for the heart. Its potassium helps control blood pressure
and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
5. Loses Weight
Pepino melon is low in
calories but high in fiber. These are very effective for weight loss.
How to Grow Pepino Melon
It is very easy to grow the
pepino melon. The step-by-step guide to growing pepino melon is as follows:
1. Choosing the Right Conditions
Pepino melon grows well in
warm weather. It can tolerate mild frost. Now know the best conditions for
growing pepino melon:
Best Time to Plant
The best time to plant pepino
melon is the spring when the soil temperature is at least 60°F (15°C). At this
temperature, pepino melon grows well. So, you can plant it at this time.
Necessary Sunlight
Pepino melon grows in full
sunlight. Usually, it needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Adequate sunlight can give it healthy growth, flowering, and good fruit. So, it
is better to plant pepino melons in a sunny spot.
Suitable Soil
Well-drained, sandy-loam, and
slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) soil is needed for pepino melon
growing. So, you will make the soil fertile by mixing organic manure with it.
Besides, you will manage good drainage to prevent root rot.
Read More
2. Planting Pepino Melon
Sowing Seeds or Planting
Seedlings
From Seeds: Sow pepino melon
seeds in late January and February. You can dow seeds indoors in pots or
directly outdoors in 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil and keep the soil moist
by regular watering.
From Seedlings: Plant
seedlings 18-24 inches apart. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root
ball. Then place the seedling in the hole. Finally, fill the hole with soil.
3. Caring for the Pepino Melon Plant
Mulching
Apply mulch around the base of
the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch directly
against the stem to prevent rot.
Watering
Water regularly to keep the
soil moist but don't water much.
Pruning
Prune older branches of pepino
melon plants to grow well.
Fertilizing
Apply compost mixed organic
fertilizer every 15 days for good growth of the plant, flowering, and bumper
fruits.
4. Controlling Pests and Diseases
Control pests and diseases of
pepino melon by applying organic insecticides like neem oil every 15
days. Prevent fungal issues by good spacing for airflow.
5. Harvesting Pepino Melon
Pepino melon is ready to
harvest when it turns a golden-yellow color with purple streaks. When ripe, the
fruit is slightly soft and its skin is delicate.
6. Storing Pepino Melon
To store pepino melon, keep it
at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, refrigerate it in a plastic bag or
airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze peeled
slices. But its texture may change. Always eat ripe pepino melon fresh for the
best flavor.
Pepino Melon Taste
The taste of pepino melon is a
delightful blend of sweetness and tenderness. Its taste can be compared to a
mixture of cantaloupe, honey, and cucumber. It is very juicy. And,
its texture is smooth and fresh. However, pepino melon is a great
addition to breakfast or salad.
Finally, pepino melon is a
wonderful addition to any diet. It is truly a superfruit for its unique taste,
low calories, and many health benefits. Whether you grow it at home or
buy it from the local market, eating pepino melon has tremendous health
benefits. So, enjoy this delicious fruit to keep your body healthy and increase
your taste buds.
Related Posts
