Burpee's Netted Gem, or “Rocky Ford” Musk Melon
First named and introduced by us thirty-five years ago (1881), this is the variety that has made Colorado famous for its luscious “Rocky Ford” Melons. The variety grown (at Rocky Ford, Colorado) is the Netted Gem, which Burpee claims to have the distinction of originating. Good seed is a prime requisite for success. Few have made any systematic selection of seed, looking well to the shape, size, solidity, depth of flesh, seed cavity, color of flesh, and quality. Many have bought from dealers who knew little of the quality of seed sold, and the result is that many melons sold as “Rocky Ford” are not up the standard. A pure “Rocky Ford” cantaloupe when ripe should have a silver-colored netting which is lace-like in appearance. The skin should be green, turning to a peculiar gray color when the melon is fit for shipping. The flesh should be green in color and so sweet and luscious that it may be eaten close to the rind. The melon should have a small seed cavity and the portion of the flesh immediately surrounding it be slightly tinged with yellow. The melon should weigh about one and a half pounds and be very solid and firm. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; ¼ lb., 30c; lb., $1.00, postpaid.
Originally listed in: Burpee's Annual for 1916
First named and introduced by us thirty-five years ago (1881), this is the variety that has made Colorado famous for its luscious “Rocky Ford” Melons. The variety grown (at Rocky Ford, Colorado) is the Netted Gem, which Burpee claims to have the distinction of originating. Good seed is a prime requisite for success. Few have made any systematic selection of seed, looking well to the shape, size, solidity, depth of flesh, seed cavity, color of flesh, and quality. Many have bought from dealers who knew little of the quality of seed sold, and the result is that many melons sold as “Rocky Ford” are not up the standard. A pure “Rocky Ford” cantaloupe when ripe should have a silver-colored netting which is lace-like in appearance. The skin should be green, turning to a peculiar gray color when the melon is fit for shipping. The flesh should be green in color and so sweet and luscious that it may be eaten close to the rind. The melon should have a small seed cavity and the portion of the flesh immediately surrounding it be slightly tinged with yellow. The melon should weigh about one and a half pounds and be very solid and firm. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; ¼ lb., 30c; lb., $1.00, postpaid.
Originally listed in: Burpee's Annual for 1916