Detailed Explanation of Key Points of Dryland Watermelon Cultivation Techniques

    For dryland watermelon cultivation, choose relatively drought-tolerant varieties, such as Taigu No. 1, Xincheng No. 1 and Zhongyu No. 6. In autumn, apply basal fertilizer broadly across the planting site, then plow deep and harrow fine. In spring, open furrows according to the row spacing and apply organic fertilizer again, along with a mixed fertilizer of oil residue and superphosphate, plow the soil over, shape the fertilizing furrows into high ridges, and lay plastic mulch. Sow in mid-April to early-to-mid May when soil moisture content is relatively high or after rain, so as to ensure full stands; in dry weather, dig holes, add water, and sow. You can also raise seedlings first, then dig holes and transplant the seedlings, first burying half the soil, watering, and then covering with additional soil. After thinning or seedling recovery, punch holes 10cm from the roots and apply 2% urea solution, 0.25kg per plant; after it infiltrates, seal the soil to promote seedling and plant growth. After the fruit sets, take advantage of rain to dig holes 20-25cm from the roots and apply topdressing; during the fruit-swelling stage, spray 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate on the leaves. In areas where rain comes early, leave the 2nd female flower to set fruit; where the rainy season comes late, leave the 3rd female flower to set fruit, ensuring that the fruit-swelling stage falls in the rainy season, so the watermelon can obtain enough water to promote full and large growth with a well-formed shape. Use single-vine training; during the fruit-setting stage, when stem and vine growth is vigorous, you may twist and injure the top or lightly press the vines. Dryland watermelons generally have weaker growth vigor; after fruit set, side branches may be appropriately retained to expand leaf area.