Ah, melons. They can be tricky in short growing seasons, and the vines can get a little longer than you expected when you first set out, but it’s all worth it when you cut open that first fruit. That sweet aroma. That sticky juice. Grow the right variety, and it’s like candy straight out of your garden. One such variety is the Zatta melon.

History of Zatta Melons

Heirloom Zatta melons originate in Italy. They appear in still life paintings from as long ago as the early 17th century. How do we know it’s these particular melons? Well, the Zatta has a”¦distinctive look. Okay, it’s a straight-up ugly look.

With thick skin that’s warty and bumpy and deeply cleft, the Italians genuinely call it “Brutto ma Buono,” which translates to “Ugly but Good.” And it is good! Cut through that nasty exterior and you’re met with an inviting, strikingly orange flesh that’s intensely fragrant and sweet.

It’s this rich payoff that has ensured the Zatta melon a popular spot throughout history. Not only were the Old Masters painting them – it’s believed that Thomas Jefferson was growing them, though he called them “Cantaloupe Massa,” according to Zatta melon info out there.

Growing Heirloom Melons

Like all melons, heirloom Zatta melons should be started early in the season. It’s a tricky germinator and a little slow to start, but once it gets going it performs well. Plant a few seeds for every viable plant you hope to have.

It should take 80-90 days from sprouting to mature melons. The vines may grow to as long as twelve feet (3.6 m.), and the fruits may weigh as much as 4 pounds (1.8 kg.). When the melons are ready to pick, their skin will develop yellow patches and they will slip easily from the vine.