Melothria pendula, commonly known as the creeping cucumber or Guadeloupe cucumber, is a small, vining plant native to the Americas. It produces small, edible fruits that resemble miniature watermelons. The plant is known for its rapid growth and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests and disturbed areas.
Melothria pendula thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers bright, indirect light. It requires regular watering, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. The plant enjoys moderate humidity and should be kept in a well-ventilated area to prevent fungal issues.
收成
Melothria pendula, commonly known as the creeping cucumber, should be harvested when the fruits are small, typically around 1-2 cm in length, as they tend to become bitter when they mature. Harvesting is best done by gently plucking the fruits from the vine, ensuring not to damage the plant. The ideal time to harvest is in the early morning when the fruits are firm and cool. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more fruits. Ensure the plant is well-watered and receives adequate sunlight for optimal fruit production.
土壤
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil mix is rich in organic matter to support its growth. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
肥料
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support its rapid growth and fruit production.
换盆
Repot Melothria pendula when it outgrows its current container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and refresh the soil mix to provide new nutrients.
传播
Propagate Melothria pendula through seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds can be sown in the spring, while stem cuttings can be taken during the growing season. Ensure the cuttings have at least one node and place them in moist soil to root.
修剪
Prune the plant regularly to control its growth and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and trim back any excessively long vines to maintain a manageable size.
毒性
Melothria pendula is toxic to pets and humans if ingested in large quantities. The unripe fruits and other parts of the plant contain cucurbitacins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress. Handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets.
额外的
Melothria pendula can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When grown indoors, ensure it has enough space to vine and consider using a trellis for support. Outdoors, it can be used as a ground cover or allowed to climb on structures.