Cantaloupes should be harvested at the full slip stage. The term "full slip" indicates the point of optimum fruit sugar content and flavor. It is the point when a slight pressure applied with the thumb to the vine/fruit junction causes the stem to detach, leaving a slight, smooth depression in the fruit. Commercially harvested fruit are often picked at the half slip stage, when part of the stem tears off and a portion of a depression is left in the fruit. This harvest technique allows for extended shipping, but fruit sugar contents are lower. Fruit should not be left on the plant past the full slip stage or fruit sugar content declines and an off flavor develops. Care should be taken when walking through the garden to avoid injuring the plants by stepping on the vines.
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