Disease control
Watermelons are susceptible to several diseases that attack the roots, foli- age and fruit. Disease control is essential in the production of high-quality watermelons. A preventive programme that combines the use of cultural practices, genetic resistance and chemical control as needed usually pro- vides the best results.
Cultural practices are useful for limiting the establishment, spread and survival of pathogens that cause watermelon diseases. Many of the fungal, bacterial and nematode pathogens survive in old crop debris and in soil. Fields should be rotated with non-cucurbit crops for at least three years to reduce pathogen levels. Grass crops are ideal for rotations where nematodes are a problem. Fields with the proper soil characteristics should be selected.
Watermelons are susceptible to several diseases that attack the roots, foli- age and fruit. Disease control is essential in the production of high-quality watermelons. A preventive programme that combines the use of cultural practices, genetic resistance and chemical control as needed usually pro- vides the best results.
Cultural practices are useful for limiting the establishment, spread and survival of pathogens that cause watermelon diseases. Many of the fungal, bacterial and nematode pathogens survive in old crop debris and in soil. Fields should be rotated with non-cucurbit crops for at least three years to reduce pathogen levels. Grass crops are ideal for rotations where nematodes are a problem. Fields with the proper soil characteristics should be selected.