Read the source range before you mark
USU's example gives two separate numbers: 24 inches within the row and 48 to 72 inches between rows. The first number sets transplant centers along a row. The second describes row-to-row separation and is not a spacing you apply between every plant in a single line.
Treat 24 inches as the point for the labeled transplant scenario in this guide. Do not silently convert it into advice for direct-sown mounds, which the source says to count separately. If you are sowing seed or thinning seedlings, record that as its own system rather than mixing those counts with transplanted positions.
- Write down the source range: 24 inches within rows, 48 to 72 inches between rows.
- Choose and label the scenario you are planning, such as transplanted melon in one measured row.
- Keep direct-sown mound counts in a separate note from transplant counts.
Source context: Utah State University Extension
Mark one row with centers and end margins
A row length alone does not tell you where the first and last transplants go. You also need an end margin, which is the distance from each end of the measured row to the first or last transplant center. The example uses 12-inch margins at both ends and 24-inch centers.
The counted item is transplants, not seeds, seedlings, mounds or row feet. In the example, the first center falls at 12 inches and the last at 132 inches along a 144-inch row. Those positions describe a geometrical layout for this one row; they are not a crop-performance claim or a recommendation for a different spacing.
- Measure the actual row length in inches or centimeters.
- Set the center interval you are using and record it.
- Set both end margins, then mark the first and last centers before filling the middle.
- Label the marks as transplant positions so they are not confused with sowing or thinning notes.
Source context: Utah State University Extension
Check the worked count
The worked example is one 144-inch row, 24-inch centers, and 12-inch margins at both ends. It calculates 6 transplant positions, with the first center at 12 inches and the last at 132 inches. This agrees with the opening scenario and should be read as a spacing example, not as a full garden plan.
The linked row calculator can count this exact length, center interval and both end margins in inches or centimeters. Use it to check your own measured row, then compare the result with your labeled scenario. Do not assume the calculator handles other layouts or features beyond that row count.
- Enter the measured row length.
- Enter the selected center interval and both end margins.
- Confirm the counted item is transplants.
- Compare the calculator result with your marked row before planting.
Source context: Utah State University Extension
Decide the rest of the layout separately
One row is not an entire garden layout. Access paths, supports, adjacent rows and the mature habit of the plants must be chosen separately. The linked guide gives a 48-to-72-inch between-row range, but it does not prescribe paths, trellis dimensions or a complete bed plan.
Record those choices as separate planning notes rather than inventing distances. If your plan includes more than one row, treat each row's transplant count separately and keep the between-row decision distinct from the within-row center interval.
- Note access and support needs as separate planning items.
- Record the between-row choice separately from the within-row interval.
- Count each measured row on its own and keep direct-sown mounds in a separate tally.
Source context: Utah State University Extension
Check your measured example
One measured 144-inch row, with selected 24-inch centers and 12-inch margins at both ends. Count 6 transplants.
Reference and growing system: USU’s melon transplant example uses 24 inches within rows 48–72 inches apart. Count this transplanted system separately from direct-sown mounds.
| Quantity | Calculated result |
|---|---|
| Usable row length (in) | 144 |
| Selected center spacing (in) | 24 |
| Margin at each row end (in) | 12 |
| Positions in this row | 6 |
| First center from row start (in) | 12 |
| Last center from row start (in) | 132 |
| What is being counted | transplants |
The example is a geometrical layout for one 144-inch row using 24-inch centers and 12-inch margins at both ends. It yields 6 transplant positions, with centers at 12 and 132 inches. It does not add new spacing advice, describe a whole garden, or apply to direct-sown mounds.
Count this row in the spacing calculator ↗Example inputs explain the method. Review the source context, chosen cultivar and actual site before planting or ordering.
Your before-you-plant checklist
- The row length is measured and recorded in inches or centimeters.
- The 24-inch center interval is labeled as the transplant scenario.
- Both end margins are set and the first and last centers are marked.
- The counted item is transplants, not seeds or mounds.
- Direct-sown mounds and any additional rows are counted separately.
Questions that come up while planning
What spacing does the melon transplant example use?
USU's melon transplant example uses 24 inches within rows spaced 48 to 72 inches apart. The 24-inch figure is the within-row transplant spacing used in the labeled example here.
How many transplants fit in the 144-inch example row?
With 24-inch centers and 12-inch margins at both ends, the example counts 6 transplants. The first center is at 12 inches and the last at 132 inches.
Can I use this count for direct-sown melon mounds?
No. The source says to count the transplanted system separately from direct-sown mounds. Keep those counts in separate notes rather than applying the transplant example to mounds.
Sources & method
Horticultural guidance is linked to its original source and regional context. Geometry and unit conversions are calculated separately. Read how we prepare and check a page.
- How to Grow Honeydew and Other Winter Melons in Your GardenUtah State University Extension