Fruit set and marketability of cantaloups (Cucumis melo L., var. reticulatus Naud.) in Yuma, Arizona, were correlated with visits by honey bees, Apis mellifera L., up to 13–14/flower. The concept that the stigma is receptive for only a few minutes is proposed. One honey bee for each 10 perfect (hermaphroditic) flowers in the field should ensure visitation during the period of receptivity.