Watermelon cultivation tips cotton

Watermelon cultivation and harvesting require careful management to ensure high quality, good shape, and optimal maturity. Here’s a detailed guide on how to properly care for watermelon plants and harvest them at the right time. First, strengthen the plant's root system. At 4 to 5 true leaves, the roots are not fully developed. Use a spatula to cut straight 13 cm from the root base, which helps deepen the root system without damaging it. This process removes lateral roots, allowing the main roots to grow stronger. This encourages a robust root system, which is essential for healthy vine growth and better fruit development. Although this may temporarily slow down vine extension, it prevents leggy growth and ensures better flowering and fruit setting. Second, apply back pressure to control excessive vine growth. When the vines grow too vigorously, dig a 7 to 10 cm deep hole and push the vine towards the root area. Curve the vine and fill the hole with soil to suppress growth and increase fruit set. Third, use a technique called "Kotobuki" when 2 to 3 female flowers appear. Take two pieces of wood about 7 cm long, heat them in a pan, and press them onto the vine near the ground. This gently bundles the vine without causing damage, promoting steady fruit development. Fourth, stem pruning helps stabilize young fruits. Place the young melon on the vine behind it and let it rest. This method, known as “behind the head, before the melon,” helps the fruit sit more securely. Fifth, tip pinching is important during the fruit expansion phase. Remove the tips of the vines that are growing too vigorously, especially near the fruit. This prevents unnecessary nutrient waste and promotes better fruit growth. To improve the shape and color of the watermelon, rotate the fruit regularly. After sunny afternoons, gently twist the fruit 3 to 7 cm at a time, turning it every other day or every 7 to 8 days. Rotate in the same direction and avoid large angles. For vertical watermelons, stand them upright a few days before harvest to enhance color and shape. In hot weather, cover the fruit with grass to protect it from sunburn. Harvesting at the right time is crucial. The maturity of watermelons can be determined by several methods: 1. **Calculation Method**: Based on the number of days since flowering or accumulated temperature. Early varieties take 25–26 days, mid-season 30–35 days, and late varieties over 40 days. Accumulated temperature is also an indicator. 2. **Visual Inspection**: Look for clear patterns, a slightly contracted base, and a sunken umbilicus. The tendrils should start to wither, and the fruit should feel firm but not hard. 3. **Touch Test**: A ripe watermelon feels smooth and sounds hollow when tapped. A raw one is harder and has a dull sound. Experienced growers can estimate ripeness by weight — ripe watermelons are lighter. 4. **Marking**: Mark the date of pollination with a stick or colored tape. This helps track maturity based on variety-specific requirements. 5. **Specific Gravity Test**: A ripe watermelon floats higher in water than an unripe one. If it sinks completely, it's underripe; if it floats with part above water, it's mature. 6. **Instrumental Testing**: Devices like the Shanghai Melon Tester measure internal temperature, with values over 8 degrees indicating ripeness. Finally, proper storage is key to preserving quality. Choose firm, well-developed watermelons with no signs of rot. Before storage, spray with a fungicide solution to prevent disease. Store in cool, ventilated areas, stacking 3–4 layers high, or use baskets with space for airflow. For low-temperature storage, pre-cool the watermelons for 2–3 days and maintain a temperature of 3–5°C. Sorbic acid coatings can also help extend shelf life. By following these techniques, you can ensure your watermelons are healthy, flavorful, and ready for market.

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