The Process of Muskmelon Cultivation

Musk melons are cultivated in a glass-enclosed greenhouse at a constant temperature

Greenhouse melons in Shizuoka prefecture are cultivated in three quarter type glass greenhouses.
In these greenhouses, the area of the roof on the south side is large, and ingenious measures are taken to maximally incorporate the sun's light.

Musk melons are grown on isolated beds

We use a cultivation method where the produce is kept away from the ground (see right).

Musk melons are cultivated throughout the year

Melon growth is affected by temperature. Melons take 85 days in summer and 110 days in winter to harvest.

Only one melon on one tree

In general, one tree will have three fruits, but producers leave only the best specimen and pick the other two.
This is to concentrate all the nutrients on only one fruit. Thus producing a premium product.

Strict inspection to maintain Shizuoka muskmelon brand

Before shipping, a cutting inspection of fruits is carried out by the Shizuoka Prefecture Greenhouse Agricultural Cooperative Association.
Specifically, melons are randomly selected boxes of melons are checked by an inspector for flesh quality, sugar content, and flavor.　Inspectors will strictly investigate maturity and taste. Only after all tests have been passed, is full-scale shipping permitted.