How to Increase the Yield of Open-Field Watermelons
A comprehensive explanation of how to increase the yield of open-field watermelons and the cultivation techniques and management of watermelon production, next our editor will introduce.
Watermelon, also known as summer melon, winter melon, and green gate jade house, is distributed in temperate and tropical regions and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, annual vine plant. For open-field planting of watermelons, if seeds are used, the seeds need to be treated, seedlings are cultivated in the seedling field, and then transplanted to the planting field. If purchasing seedlings directly, plant them after tilling the soil. Let's understand the planting methods together.
1. Seed Treatment
If seeds are purchased from the market for planting, they need to be treated. Select plump and glossy seeds from the purchased seeds, expose them to the sun for 2 days, then soak in 55℃ warm water for 2 hours, followed by soaking in a carbendazim solution for 5 minutes, and after that, plant them in the seedling field. Wait until the seeds grow into seedlings before transplanting them to the planting field.
2. Tilling the Soil
Before planting seedlings, it is necessary to till the soil to loosen it, which is beneficial for improving drainage and aeration. The depth of tilling should be about 20 centimeters. After tilling, let the soil be exposed to the sun for 10 days before planting to kill any eggs that may be present in the soil. 10 days before planting, fertilize the soil with 150 jin of nitrogen-potassium compound fertilizer per mu.
3. Planting
When the temperature of the soil surface is stabilized at 15℃, the watermelon seedlings can be planted. Refer to a planting density of 600 to 800 seedlings per mu. Plant the seedlings uniformly 3 centimeters into the soil, press the roots firmly with fine soil, water thoroughly once, and no need to water within a week. Water the second time based on the dryness of the soil after 10 days.
4. Seedling Management
There is no need to water frequently during the seedling growth stage. Water only when the soil is relatively dry, keeping the soil slightly moist. Always be aware of preventing cold air to avoid frostbite to the seedlings when the temperature drops below 10℃. The seedlings require a large amount of fertilizer during the growth stage. You can pile a layer of withered leaves on the soil surface and spray 500 grams of glucose and 40 jin of penicillin per mu.
5. Pest and Disease Prevention
During the seedling growth period, it is necessary to spray specialized pesticides at regular intervals to prevent pests and diseases. When powdery mildew occurs, spray with diluted tebuconazole or difenoconazole. When pests occur, use hymexazol solution for root irrigation or spraying.
The detailed explanation of how to increase the yield of open-field watermelons and the cultivation techniques and management of watermelon production shared above is for reference and suggestion only!