The Latest Melon Irrigation Techniques and Methods Tutorial

During melon cultivation, a large amount of water is needed, and the water contained in the soil itself depends on rainfall, so it is not enough to supply growth. Artificial irrigation is needed to meet the demand. However, since melons also have a limited water requirement, too much water easily causes fruit cracking, so the soil moisture content needs to be reasonably regulated to control good growth.

I. Water Requirement Characteristics

Melons need sufficient water to grow, but they are also afraid of waterlogging; waterlogging causes root rot, and too much water causes fruit cracking. They are relatively drought-tolerant and heat-tolerant. Melon leaves are large and the stems are mainly composed of water. In the early stage of stem and leaf growth, frequent watering is needed to keep the leaves open for good photosynthesis to produce nutrients, and the stems need a certain amount of water to transport and transmit materials. The flowering period does not need too much water, as flowers fall easily. In the later stage, the fruit needs sufficient water. But not too much.

II. Irrigation

1. Seedling Stage

During the seedling stage, water less and carry out hardening of the seedlings to improve disease resistance. Supplying a small amount of water to the root system helps root development and promotes plant growth. Field drip irrigation can be used, in small amounts but continuously.

2. Flowering Stage

During the flowering stage, generally do not water or water less. Too much watering easily causes flower drop and reduces the fruit-setting rate. Unless drought occurs during the flowering stage and flowers cannot open, then water appropriately at night to maintain normal development.

3. Fruiting Stage

When fruit setting is general, watering should be done once a week to meet the demand, until the fruit stops growing or turns yellow. Sprinkler irrigation can be used directly; it will not impact the soil and will not damage the roots.

III. Precautions

Each irrigation must soak the water through, wetting all the root systems; it cannot be alternately dry and wet, as this will cause uneven growth. To save time and effort and for good absorption, chemical fertilizers can be dissolved in the irrigation water and continuously absorbed through drip irrigation. Do not water when the temperature changes suddenly, as it will affect soil temperature. If it is too dry, gradually increase the amount of watering at night to restore it. If the soil is compacted, water thoroughly and then carry out intertillage.

In melon cultivation, mastering irrigation moisture is very important, and it must be controlled in the most suitable state of being sufficient but not excessive. Therefore, the methods introduced above should be used for irrigation. Only then can a good growth state be achieved.