Melons are delicious perfumed fruit which is a kid of berry (pepo).  They are from Africa and Southwest Asia and there are records of the ancient Egyptians growing them.  They were bought into the States int he 1600's - one of the first crops introduced by westerners. Varieties Honeydew , Casabas , Asian - C. melo inodorus European Cantaloupe - C melo cantalupensis North America cantaloupe - C melo reticulatus varieties  

How to Grow Melons

Melons love hot dry climates BUT with plenty of water so don't skimp. You can mound soil into long rows on the ground or in a bed at least 2 metre x 2 metre. Mulch around the melons with straw to protect from drying out.