Supersprout was absolutely right, you can sow them right into the ground, I did in BC Canada, but it was warmer there by sowing time.If you are in a very warm area I would too, but I am in Hull and that is borderline for some stuff so I start in pots. Moist, but not wet soil or the seeds will rot, don't cook them but keep them warm,airing cupboard but check everyday. Once up give them light ,I have heat and light in my greenhouse but if not treat as tomatoes and keep them on a warm windowsill.If you have a conservatory that is great.. I start mine in Jiffy 7's ,transfer to 3 inch pots when they have only 1 real leaf and 1 peeping through.They are big plants.Pot them on as they grow, they end up in large buckets, so you will need room, then I put them out when it is warm and let them go.Don't pinch out the growing tips,this is an old European trick for melons under glass but not required in the field.
Good luck,
Jeannine
