What type of soil is suitable for watermelon cultivation
The editor introduces to you the type of soil suitable for watermelon cultivation and the natural conditions for watermelon growth, with the following details:
1. Temperature requirements for watermelon growth and development
Watermelon is native to the tropical regions of Africa. It prefers a hot and dry climate and is not cold-resistant. The minimum temperature for seed germination is 15°C, with the optimal temperature being 28-30°C. As the temperature increases, the speed of seed germination gradually accelerates. The minimum temperature for the extension of watermelon roots is 8°C, with the optimal temperature being 32°C; the minimum temperature for the occurrence of root hairs is 14°C. The optimal temperature for plant growth and development is 24-30°C, with photosynthesis being greatest at 30°C. The flowering period is most suitable at around 25°C, and for fruit expansion and maturation, 30°C is ideal. Large day-night temperature differences result in more assimilation products and less respiratory consumption, hence higher sugar content and better quality.
2. Water requirements for watermelon growth and development
Watermelon is a drought-resistant crop with a series of drought-resistant ecological characteristics and a powerful root system. The relative humidity of the air is most suitable at 50%-60%. At the same time, watermelon is also a crop that requires a lot of water, with an entire growth period of a watermelon plant needing about 2000 liters of water. Watermelon is extremely sensitive to waterlogging and can easily suffocate and die if flooded, therefore, proper irrigation is necessary to achieve early maturity and high yield.
3. Light requirements for watermelon growth and development
Watermelon is a light-loving crop that requires ample sunlight duration and intensity. The light saturation point is 80000 lux, and the compensation point for photosynthesis is 4000 lux. Under short-day (8 hours) and higher temperature (27°C) conditions, the number of female flowers increases, while under long-day (16 hours) and high temperature (32°C) conditions, female flower development is inhibited.
4. Soil and fertilizer requirements for watermelon growth and development
Watermelon roots have a clear preference for loose soil, making sandy soil the ideal soil for cultivating watermelon. The optimal pH for watermelon growth and development is 5-7. Watermelon has strong salt tolerance, with soil salt concentrations below 0.2% being suitable for growth. Watermelon generally requires nitrogen and potassium fertilizers for stems and leaves, while fruits especially need potassium fertilizers. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers promote the formation, transport, and storage of carbohydrates, especially sugars.
The above is a detailed explanation of the soil suitable for watermelon cultivation and the natural conditions for watermelon growth, for everyone's reference and suggestions!