HAMI MELON (PREORDER)

~20 lbs Hami Melon aka "Chinese Hami Melon", "Ha-Mi-Gua", "哈密​​瓜" Hami melon has a similar appearance as the cantaloupe but in an oblong shape with yellow netted skin and green streaks. The flesh is pale orange with large, cream-colored seeds and pulps in the center that are usually removed. Hami melon is generally six to nine pounds. The taste is sweet, juicy, and crisp with a floral fragrance. If you like cantaloupe, you will also like Hami melon as the flavor is very similar. Hami melon is generally available from mid-summer to early spring. Handling Tip Selection Hami melon is firm and heavy for its size. The stem end gives slightly when pressured and has a fruity aroma. Storage Hami melon should be stored at 50ºF (10ºC) with a relative humidity of ninety to ninety-five percent and with no mist. The typical shelf life is two to three weeks. Hami melon is sensitive to ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that regulates ripening. Hami melon should not be stored with high ethylene-producing products to extend shelf life. Hami melon produces a high level of ethylene. Hami melon is sensitive to chilling injury at below 45°F (7ºC). Symptoms include pitting, darkened surfaces, and failure to ripen. As the fruit ripens, it becomes less sensitive to chilling injury.