The best time to plant cantaloupe is about 2 to 3 weeks after your last anticipated frost of the season. They do best when overnight lows don't dip below 50 degrees.
Plant in nutrient rich soil that drains well, such as raised beds or large containers. Cantaloupe needs 8hrs of direct sunlight. Plant next to a trellis for the vines to climb or allow space for the vines to sprawl over the surrounding ground.
Cantaloupe are large plants that take a long time to grow to maturity and produce fruit. You can buy a cantaloupe start from the local nursery or start your own plants by seed indoors about 2-4 weeks before your last frost date. Space plants at least 9"- 12" apart from each other.