Watermelon is one of the fruits to cool off in the summer and is also a fruit and vegetable that many people like to grow. To get a bountiful harvest of watermelon, scientific fertilization is essential. However, many farmers do not know which fertilizer to choose and when to apply it. This article will introduce the selection of watermelon fertilizers and the arrangement of fertilization time.
I. Factors to consider before fertilizing
There are many factors to consider before applying fertilizer, such as soil type, climatic conditions, and moisture status. Only by understanding these factors can we better choose fertilizers suitable for watermelon growth.
II. The difference between organic fertilizer and chemical fertilizer
When choosing fertilizers, we can choose between organic fertilizer or chemical fertilizer. Organic fertilizer refers to fertilizers made from animal and plant residues and manure, while chemical fertilizer refers to chemically synthesized fertilizers. Organic and chemical fertilizers have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should be made based on the actual situation.
III. Advantages of organic fertilizer
Organic fertilizer is a natural fertilizer that can provide sufficient nutrients, help improve soil fertility and soil structure. Compared with chemical fertilizers, organic fertilizers can release nutrients continuously and will not have a toxic effect on plants.
IV. Disadvantages of organic fertilizer
The disadvantage of organic fertilizer is its low nutrient content and slow decomposition rate. This requires early application to provide sufficient nutrients during the watermelon growth period.
V. Advantages of chemical fertilizer
Chemical fertilizers have high nutrient content and are easily absorbed. They can provide sufficient nutrients to watermelons in a short time, promoting their rapid growth and development.
VI. Disadvantages of chemical fertilizer
Chemical fertilizers are prone to volatilization and loss, which can easily cause groundwater pollution. Excessive application of chemical fertilizers can have negative effects on the soil and also affect the absorption capacity of plant roots.
VII. How to choose the right fertilizer
When choosing fertilizers, factors such as soil type, climatic conditions, and watermelon varieties need to be considered. For example, in arid regions, potassium-containing fertilizers can be chosen; in areas with low soil fertility, fertilizers with more organic matter can be selected.
VIII. Application rate of fertilizer
The application rate of fertilizer should be determined according to soil quality and watermelon variety. Generally, the application rate per mu should be controlled between 500-750 kg, and excessive use should be avoided.
IX. Selection of fertilization time
The growth period of watermelon is divided into germination, growth, and fruiting stages. Appropriately increasing the application of nitrogen fertilizer during the germination and growth stages can promote the growth and development of watermelon. Appropriately increasing the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer during the fruiting stage helps to improve the quality of watermelon.
X. Methods of fertilization
When applying fertilizer, methods such as row-by-row fertilization and topdressing can be adopted. At the same time, attention should be paid to water control to avoid waste of fertilizer.
XI. How to avoid problems caused by excessive fertilizer
Excessive application of fertilizer will have negative effects on watermelon, such as causing fruit to crack and reducing quality. Pay attention to controlling the application amount during fertilization to avoid excessive use.
XII. How to ensure watermelon quality
In addition to scientific fertilization, attention should also be paid to keeping the soil moist and preventing pest and disease infestation. At the same time, mature watermelons should be picked in time to ensure quality.
XIII. Storage of watermelon fertilizer
When storing watermelon fertilizer, pay attention to light-proof, moisture-proof, and sealing to avoid chemical reactions.
XIV. Observation and adjustment after fertilization
After fertilization, the growth status of watermelon should be observed and adjusted according to the situation. If the watermelon is not growing well, the application amount can be appropriately increased.
XV.
Scientific fertilization is an important measure to improve the yield and quality of watermelon. In terms of selecting fertilizers, application rates, and fertilization times, it is necessary to make choices based on the actual situation in order to achieve better results.