Phosphorus is generally applied early and up to fruit set, ensuring supplies are not limiting. Phosphorus is readily redistributed throughout the melon plant. It is particularly important to have adequate phosphorus prior to flowering as it increases melon fruit set and weight, encouraging higher yields and producing thicker skins. Deficiencies can result in flower abortion.
Increasing Melon Fruit Set and Weight
Melon plants are frost susceptible and low temperatures can cause growth abnormalities, poor flower and fruit set. Insects, in particular bees, are important to aid pollination and fruit set.
Melon fruit set and weight is also influenced by the right balance of nutrients, both major- and micronutrients
Phosphorus
Boron
Boron has a key role to play in flower pollination and fruit formation. Because melon flowers are only viable for a short period, it is important that supplies are not limiting during pollination.
Boron is important in improving calcium mobility and the transport of sugars and plant growth regulators.
Micronutrients
Molybdenum and zinc are also important nutrients for melon fruit set. Zinc is especially needed during flowering and early bud development.
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Increasing Melon Yield
The aim of any producer is a high yielding, high quality melon crop that satisfies the end user.
Influencing melon quality
The aim of any producer is a high quality crop that satisfies the end user.
Reducing Melon Fruit Cracking
To avoid melon fruit cracking, growers can select more tolerant melon varieties and grow them on soils where drainage is not a problem and where water supply can be properly managed.
Increasing Melon Fruit Netting
Melon netting is the waxy, raised crisscross, net-like protecting structure found on the rind of some Cantaloupe types.
