14 



The Bulletin, 



At the last cultivation, which should be just before the plants begin 

 to meet in the middle of the row, cowpeas, soy beans, or clover should 

 be sown in the middles. (See Fig. 4.) This will provide a good crop of 



Fig. 4. Cowpeas sown in the middle of ttie row at the last cultivation. 



hay, with the crab-grass that grows voluntarily in this section, and inci- 

 dentally a nice profit as a second crop on the land occupied by the 

 melons. Many growers cut from a ton to a ton and a half of hay per 

 acre, while other growers turn the crop under to improve the land. 



PICKING. 



Picking is one of the most important operations connected with the 

 culture of cantaloupes, chiefly because of the difficulty in securing experi- 

 enced help, and the difference of opinion exhibited by most growers as 

 to the proper stage of maturity at which a melon should be picked for 

 market. 



If picked too green, they will reach the market in good condition, but 

 will lack quality and flavor. 



If picked too ripe, they will be soft on arrival at their destination and 

 will have to be sold at a sacrifice. 



A cantaloupe if not picked at a certain stage of ripeness will never be 

 fit to eat. Experience is required to decide Avhat this stage is, in order 

 that they will reach market in good condition and still possess the fine 

 flavor and quality desired. 



