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Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a succulent fruit and vine-like plant that is cultivated in Mexico and it generates employment and currency for the country. However, there is the need to research what local organic substrates can substitute peat moss as a culture medium to produce watermelon seedlings of good quality and at low cost. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of five local organic substrates as substitutes of the commercial substrate “Peat Moss”, for the production of seedlings of two watermelon cultivars, Sun Sweet and Jubilee. Five local organic substrates were studied: cacao husk, compost, vermicompost, bovine manure, coconut fiber and the commercial substrate “Peat Moss” as control. The response variables were percentage of germination, indicators of morphological quality and morphological quality indexes, stability of the clod, and relative efficiency of the local substrates. The best morphological indicators and morphological quality index of the seedlings were found with the substrates cacao husk and vermicompost, with a seedling quality similar to those obtained with the commercial substrate. Compost presented the lowest stability of the clod and relative efficiency. The substrates of cacao husk and vermicompost can substitute the commercial substrate “Peat Moss”, in addition to being easy to obtain and of low cost; so they are a viable alternative for rural farmers in the production of watermelon seedlings. RESUMO Melancia (Citrullus lanatus) é uma planta frutífera, ramadora, cultivada no México, gerando emprego e divisas para o país. Há necessidade de pesquisar substratos orgânicos locais ideais para substituir a turfa como meio de cultura visando produção de mudas de melancia de boa qualidade com baixo custo. Portanto, avaliou-se as propriedades físico-químicas de cinco substratos orgânicos locais (casca de cacau, composto, vermicomposto, esterco bovino, fibra de coco e o substrato comercial “Peat Moss” como controle) como substitutos do substrato comercial “Peat Moss”, para produzir mudas das cultivares Sun Sweet e Jubilee. As variáveis de resposta foram: porcentagem de germinação, indicadores de qualidade morfológica e índices de qualidade morfológica, estabilidade do torrão e eficiência relativa dos substratos locais. Os melhores indicadores morfológicos e índice de qualidade morfológica das mudas foram encontrados com os substratos casca de cacau e vermicomposto, com qualidade de mudas semelhantes às obtidas com o substrato comercial. O composto apresentou a menor estabilidade do torrão e eficiência relativa. Os substratos de casca de cacau e vermicomposto são adequados para substituir o substrato comercial “Peat Moss”, além de serem de fácil obtenção e de baixo custo, sendo uma alternativa viável para agricultores rurais na produção de mudas de melancia.

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is one of the world's most important fruit crops, and China produces the most watermelons in the world. Recently, a watermelon variome consisting of 414 key resequenced accessions was reported. However, the genetic relationships and pedigree of Chinese watermelon varieties in the seed market remain unclear. In this study, 241 evenly distributed perfect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from the watermelon variome were selected for variety identification. The diversity of 247 Chinese watermelon varieties was identified based on their SNP genotypes. The 247 watermelon varieties were clustered into five subpopulations: the East Asian ecotype, intermediate ecotype, small fruit with red flesh ecotype, small fruit with yellow flesh ecotype, and American ecotype. We further established the pedigree of four subpopulations, of which JingXinNo.1, ZaoChunHongYu, HuangXiaoYu and XiaoLan, and Sugarlee were the main doner of the East Asian ecotype, small fruit with red flesh ecotype, small fruit with yellow flesh ecotype, and American ecotype, respectively. Thirty-two core SNPs were selected and applied in watermelon variety identification. They were also validated by the Kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASPar) platform. The present study furthered our understanding of the genetic relationships and pedigree of watermelon varieties in China, and will help to manage the plant variety protection in watermelon.

Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.] and citron watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides (L.H. Bailey) Mansf. ex Greb.) are amongst the widely grown yet under-researched cucurbits genetic resources in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Fresh immature leaves, fruit and seed are used for food and medicinal purposes in the region. Furthermore, both species are used as rootstock and donors of novel genes for commercial production and breeding of sweet dessert watermelon cultivars. Despite their economic value and contribution to food and nutrition security in the region, bottle gourd and citron watermelon genetic resources remain under-utilized and largely un-explored for commercial product development. The objective of this review was to document the unique values of bottle gourd and citron watermelon for genetic improvement and development of value-added food and non-food products, and to highlight regional and global efforts on conservation, production, processing, commercialization and various enterprise development of these important indigenous species. The review discussed on the value of both crops as a rootstock to improve fruit yield and quality of cultivated watermelon. This is followed by important summaries on phenotypic and genetic variation of bottle gourd and citron watermelon genetic resources and implications for new cultivar design. Finally, the review highlighted value-added non-food and food-based products developed based on indigenous knowledge systems in SSA and availability and access to genetic resources of bottle gourd and citron watermelon for breeding, product design and deployment.

Watermelon is an important cucurbit vegetable crop grown in most of the United States. Phytophthora fruit rot of watermelon caused by Phytophthora capsici has been a major factor, limiting production for the past 15 years in the southeastern United States. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service released five Phytophthora fruit rot-resistant germplasm lines for use in breeding programs. These lines were developed by phenotyping using a local isolate of P. capsici from South Carolina. The present study was undertaken to determine if these resistant lines had broad resistance to diverse P. capsici isolates collected from different states and crops. Five resistant germplasm lines (USVL020-PFR, USVL203-PFR, USVL782-PFR, USVL489-PFR, and USVL531-MDR) and two susceptible cultivars, Sugar Baby and Mickey Lee, used as checks were grown in a field in 2014 and 2015 to produce fruit for evaluation. Mature fruit were harvested and placed in a walk-in growth chamber and inoculated with 20 different P. capsici isolates. The chamber was maintained at 26 ± 2°C and high relative humidity (>95%) using a humidifier. All five resistant germplasm lines were significantly more resistant than the two susceptible checks to all 20 P. capsici isolates. Among the five resistant germplasm lines, USVL020-PFR, USVL782-PFR, and USVL531-MDR had broad resistance. Some P. capsici isolates induced minor lesions and rot on USVL489-PFR compared with the other resistant lines. Variation in virulence and genetic diversity among the 20 P. capsici isolates was also observed. The five watermelon germplasm lines will be useful for developing commercial watermelon cultivars with broad resistance to P. capsici.

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (Fon), is a soilborne disease that significantly limits yield in watermelon ( Citrullus lanatus) and occasionally causes the loss of an entire year's harvest. Reference-quality de novo genomic assemblies of pathogenic and nonpathogenic strains were generated using a combination of next-generation and third-generation sequencing technologies. Chromosomal-level genomes were produced with representatives from three Fon races, facilitating comparative genomic analysis and the identification of chromosomal structural variation. Syntenic analysis between isolates allowed for differentiation of the core and lineage-specific portions of their genomes. This research will support future efforts to refine the scientific understanding of the molecular and genetic factors underpinning the Fon host range, develop diagnostic assays for each of the four races, and decipher the evolutionary history of race 3. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .

Watermelon is traditionally grown under direct sowing system. However, due to high costs of good quality seeds of improved cultivars, seedling transplanting is a promising alternative for watermelon production. This study aimed at evaluating, during two production cycles, the performance of watermelon under direct sowing cultivation system and seedling transplanting. The field trials were carried out from May to September, 2015 and 2016, at Setor de Horticultura da Escola de Agronomia of Universidade Federal de Goiás. In 2015, the experimental design was randomized blocks (DBC) with four replicates in a 2x4 factorial scheme (two hybrids: Manchester and Talisman, and two planting methods: direct sowing and transplanting 15-, 20- and 25-day old seedlings). In 2016, the experimental design was DBC with six replicates. The treatments consisted of three direct sowing dates (0, 5 and 10 days) and three different seedling ages (15, 20 and 25 days). Number of leaves, plant height and dry mass of seedlings of different ages, vine length and virus incidence along the crop cycle were evaluated. Upon significant F-test (5%) for seedling age, regression analysis was performed, and when cultivar effect was significant, Tukey test (5%) was used. Planting methods (direct sowing X seedlings) were compared by orthogonal contrasts. In 2016, the beginning of flowering was evaluated, and in both trials, the average crop cycle for each treatment was determined. Fruit length and width, fruit mass, thickness of the white part of the rind, and soluble solids content were evaluated at harvesting. The 25-day old seedlings had higher number of leaves, as well as, higher dry mass, comparing with seedlings on the transplanting day. Yield and fruit quality were not influenced by treatments. No significant differences for virus disease incidence were detected, in both production cycles. Direct sowing reduced the crop cycle in both field trials, with no differences in production and quality of fruits. Considering the costs of establishing watermelon fields as relevant, the results suggest the importance of direct sowing as the most viable method for watermelon cultivation, due to the ease of the process, as well as, reduction in costs related to seedling production and transplanting operations. RESUMO A melancia é tradicionalmente cultivada por semeadura direta, porém, em função do alto valor das sementes de materiais melhorados, o transplantio de mudas é alternativa promissora. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar, em dois ciclos de produção, o desempenho agronômico da melancia por semeadura direta e transplantio de mudas. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em campo, entre maio e setembro de 2015 e de 2016 no Setor de Horticultura da Escola de Agronomia da Universidade Federal de Goiás. O ciclo de produção de 2015 foi em delineamento de blocos ao acaso (DBC) com quatro repetições em esquema fatorial 2x4 (dois híbridos: Manchester e Talisman e dois tipos de cultivos: semeadura direta e mudas com 15, 20 e 25 dias). Na safra de 2016 foi em DBC com seis repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por três datas de semeadura direta (0, 5 e 10 dias) e três idades de mudas (15, 20 e 25 dias). Avaliou-se número de folhas, altura e massa seca por muda de diferentes idades e comprimento de ramas e a incidência de viroses ao longo do ciclo da cultura. Quando o teste F (5%) foi significativo para idade da muda, realizou-se análise de regressão, e quando houve efeito da cultivar foi aplicado o teste de Tukey (5%). Métodos de plantio (semeadura direta versus mudas) foram comparados por contrastes ortogonais. Em 2016, avaliou-se o início do florescimento, e em ambos os experimentos foi determinado o ciclo médio da cultura em cada tratamento. Na fase de colheita avaliaram-se: comprimento e largura do fruto, massa do fruto, espessura da parte branca do fruto e teor de sólidos solúveis. Mudas com maior idade (25 dias) apresentaram superioridade em relação ao número de folhas e massa seca da muda no dia do transplantio. Variáveis associadas à produtividade e qualidade dos frutos não foram influenciadas pelos tratamentos. Não houve diferença significativa com relação à incidência de viroses nos dois ciclos de produção. A semeadura direta reduziu o ciclo da melancia nos dois experimentos, entretanto, sem alteração da produção e qualidade dos frutos. Considerando que o custo de implantação de lavouras de melancia é fator relevante, os resultados obtidos reafirmam a importância da semeadura direta como o método mais viável ao plantio de melancia, considerando a facilidade do método e também a redução dos custos com a produção de mudas e operações de transplantio.

Globally, the guava root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne enterolobii) is becoming an emerging threat of note in crops with or without Mi resistance genes. Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) cultivars are hi...

The wound inflicted during grafting of watermelon seedlings requires rapid and sufficient vascular development which is affected by light quality. Our objective was to investigate the effect of light spectra emitted by light-emitting diodes (LEDs) during healing of grafted watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) seedlings on their vascular development, physiological and phytohormonal profile, and root architecture. Three LEDs emitting red (R), blue (B), and RB with 12% blue (12B) were tested in a healing chamber. During the first three days, the photosynthetic apparatus portrayed by PIABS, φP0, ψE0, and ΔVIP was less damaged and faster repaired in B-treated seedlings. B and 12B promoted vascular reconnection and root development (length, surface area and volume). This was the result of signaling cascade between phytohormones such as indole-3-acetic acid and others. After vascular reconnection the seedlings switched lights for 3 more days and the picture was reversed. Seedlings treated with B for the first 3 days and R for days 4 to 6 had better photosynthetic characteristics, root system development, morphological, shoot and root biomass, and quality (i.e. Dickson’s quality index) characteristics. We concluded that blue light is important during the first 3 days of healing, while the presence of red is necessary after vascular reconnection.

Climate change is an inevitable process characterized by an abrupt increase in global temperature and a decrease in precipitations leading to drought incidents. Biostimulants could be a valuable tool for mitigating these harsh conditions. The objective of our study was to test the efficiency of two biostimulants, a silicon-based seaweed and the seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum, to mitigate the drought stress endured by watermelon transplants during the first few weeks after transplanting. In order to achieve this, three water treatments (100%, 75%, and 50% of field capacity) were applied in pots. Important growth parameters (leaf number, fresh weight, and plant area) deteriorated depending on water availability. This was also the case for the root system development displayed by root dry weight, total length, and surface area. It is the first time the OJIP transient has been evaluated after the application of A. nodosum for drought-stressed plants. Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters showed that the photosynthetic apparatus was more stressed when A. nodosum was applied, especially in the harshest conditions (i.e., 50% field capacity). Overall, the silicon-based biostimulant failed to demonstrate drought-mitigating potential compared to the non-treated counterparts. On the other hand, A. nodosum alleviated the negative effects of water deficit, especially in the harshest conditions.

In many countries of Europe and Eastern Asia, watermelon production is mainly based on the use of grafted seedlings. Upon grafting, seedlings undergo a period of healing where artificial lighting is provided by light-emitting diodes in controlled chambers in order to accelerate and improve the healing process. The objective of our study was to test the effect of light quality on the final product (i.e., seedlings ready for transplanting) in the nursery, as well as to evaluate the possible implications on fruit quality after field cultivation. Narrow-band blue (B) and red (R) wavelengths, 64–36% R-B (36B), 76–24% R-B (24B), 88–12% R-B (12B), and 83–12% R-B plus 5% far-red (12B+FR) wavelengths were tested. 12B+FR enhanced the root dry weight, root architecture, and maximum photosynthetic rate, while RB combinations generally showed better root system development with increased blue portion. R light induced inferior root dry weight and quality indices (root/shoot and shoot–dry–weight/length ratios), lower gas exchange parameters, and chlorophyll content, but high shoot length and leaf area. B light led to inferior root architecture, lower stem diameter, leaf area, and maximum photosynthetic rate. Both R and B wavelengths showed decreased concentration of macronutrients and trace elements. After field cultivation, fruit quality (i.e., morphology and color), and valuable nutritive characteristics (i.e., phenolics, carotenoids, lycopene, antioxidants) maintained high quality irrespective of light treatments. Overall, 12B+FR performed well in almost all qualitative parameters including the morphology, the root development, and photosynthesis, while also maintaining high fruit quality.

This systematic literature review seeks to assess the effects of grafting on watermelon fruit quality and yield from literature from a multitude of countries. Searches will be conducted in multiple databases (WOS Core Collection, CABI CAB Abstracts, BIOSIS Citation Index, and SciELO Citation Index) using the search terms: TOPIC: (watermelon* OR “Citrullus Lanatus" OR sandía*) AND TOPIC: (*graft* OR rootstock* OR scion* OR injert* OR v*stago* OR portainjerto*) The search will also be conducted in various grey literature resources (University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences EDIS Database, Proquest Dissertations and Thesis Global, UN FAO’s Agris, and the World Vegetable Center) using the search term "watermelon graft" and "injerto sandía". The refined results will be imported to systematic review web-based software Covidence. Through the Covidence platform, the documents will be included or excluded in 2 steps: the 'Title and Abstract Screening' step and the 'Full Article Review' step. Inclusion criteria will be detailed later in this protocol. After item evaluation, data will be extracted from included documents regarding plant production conditions and protocols as well as fruit quality and yield parameters. Specific parameters are included later in this protocol as well. This data will be used to analyze whether grafting enhances or diminishes the yield and/or quality of watermelon.

Over the years, the use of organic materials in farming has reduced due to the increase in the use of chemical fertilizers which are rich in readily available plant nutrients. Intensive use of chemical fertilizers may have depressing effect on yield of watermelon. The field experiment were conducted at the Experimental Clinic of the Laboratory “Selection of vegetable and melon crops” and in the laboratory “Biosafety and Biocontrol of vegetable and melon crops” of Regional Branch “Kainar” of the LLP “Kazakh Research Institute of Fruit and Vegetable Growing” which is located in the foothill zone of the southeast of Kazakhstan, to study the effects of different types of organic fertilizers (cow manure, poultry manure and biohumus) and recommended chemical fertilizer (NPK) on the characteristics of watermelon (growth parameters, yield and quality) of southeast of Kazakhstan. There were significant differences among the treatments in relation to fruit yield of watermelon, growth paremeters and quality properties (dry matter, total sugar, Vitamin C and NO3-N). Recommended fertilizer dose (N90P60K60) had the highest fruit yield of watermelon and growth paremeters followed by manure applied at 40 t ha-1. All the fertilizer treatments had higher yield of watermelon than control. From this study, the use of manure as an organic fertilizer in the cultivation of watermelon could be used as alternative to chemical fertilizer. It is recommended that manure at 40 t ha-1 be adopted for watermelon cultivation in in the Southeast of Kazakhstan.

The scarce availability of good quality water for irrigation in semi-arid regions leads to the reuse of waters, such as reject brine. Associated with this, the use of alternatives, such as hydroponic cultivation in substrates suitable for the development of profitable crops, such as watermelon, a species considered moderately sensitive to salinity, will allow new opportunities for communities assisted by desalination plants. An experiment was conducted in a plastic greenhouse to evaluate the growth, physiological responses, yield, and fruit quality of ‘Sugar Baby’ mini-watermelon cultivated in a hydroponic system with reject brine from desalination plants and different substrates. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with treatments arranged in a 5 × 4 factorial scheme, corresponding to five mixtures of reject brine (9.50 dS m−1) and tap water (0.54 dS m−1) applied to mini-watermelon plants, in an open hydroponic system, with four types of substrate and four replicates, with two plants per plot. Mini-watermelon plants grown in coconut fiber substrate showed the best growth and production. On the other hand, washed sand was the substrate that most hampered the development of plants in all mixtures. The use of reject brine to prepare the nutrient solution reduced the growth and production of mini-watermelon, mainly in mixtures with salinity above 4.00 dS m−1. The changes in gas exchange caused by salt stress in mini-watermelon were of stomatal nature. Mini-watermelon has high energy stability under conditions of salt stress.

Background: Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) seed is one of the underutilized crops in Africa. It is a valuable food resource but its usage is limited due to the presence of anti-nutritional factors and its poor storage properties. In this study, the comparative effect of processing methods on nutritional, anti-nutritional and functional properties of watermelon seed flour was determined. Methods; Watermelon seeds were subjected to different processing methods (soaking, germination and boiling), dried and milled into flours. Proximate composition, antinutritional factors (tannins, phytates, oxalate, saponins, trypsin inhibitor, and glycogenic glycoside) and functional properties (water and oil absorption capacity, bulk density, foaming capacity) of the flour were determined using standard methods and analytical procedures. Results: There were significant differences (p0.05) was seen in arginine, methionine, proline and aspartic acid of all the seed flours. The processed seed flour also exhibited desirable functional properties when compared with the unprocessed seed flour. Conclusion: Soaking, germination and boiling can be used for the reduction of antinutrient contents while improving the nutrient density and bioavailability of water-melon seed flour. Thus the processed seed flour hence may be useful for confectionery products, aerated foods and high nutrient density weaning foods

The production of transgenic watermelon through Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation with in vitro regeneration system is a time-consuming, labor-intensive and genotype-dependent process. To acquire large number of transgenic watermelons in a shorter period of time, the half-seed explants were infected with Agrobacterium strain EHA 105 harboring pCAMBIA1301 with bar and gus genes. The factors affecting in planta transformation efficiency, such as co-cultivation duration, acetosyringone concentration, sonication duration and vacuum infiltration were assessed in the present study. The half-seed explants were sonicated for 3 min and 2 min vacuum infiltrated in Agrobacterium suspension and co-cultivated for 3 days with 100 µM acetosyringone showed maximum transformation efficiency. The transformed watermelon plants were selected against BASTA® and GUS, PCR, Southern hybridization analysis confirmed the transgene integration. The amenability of this established protocol was analyzed on four genotypes, in which the response of all genotypes was positive, whereas Arka manik showed the higher transformation efficiency of 17%. The transformation protocol developed in the present study is efficient, economical and expeditious without the taking part of any tissue culture phases and produce a large number of transgenic lines within a short period of 56 days.

Highlights • Salt stress effects agronomic traits and uptake of minerals. • Salt stress also enhanced the oxidative stress biomarkers like hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). • Supplementation of Mycorrhiza enhances the agronomical traits and alleviates slat stress. • Silicon application also mitigates the salt stress through modulating antioxidant enzymes. • The combination of Mycorrhiza and Silicon were more effective than their individual effect., Citrullus lanatus L. is critical vegetable for salinity stress. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and silicon treatments are known to help as bio-ameliorator of saline soils that can improve salinity tolerance in plants. But their combined effect has never been examined on watermelon therefore, present study investigated the effect of inoculation with the Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) along with silicon on the growth and yield parameters, antioxidant enzyme activities, pigment and mineral content of Citrullus lanatus L. plants grown during salt stress conditions. Outcomes from the study point out that salt stressed watermelon plants showed the best morphological and biochemical values when inoculated with Silicon (4 mM) + Glomus mosseae + Gigaspora gigantean. In addition, the plants inoculated by similar treatment demonstrated less osmotic activity, electrolyte leakage, as well as peroxide content. Treatments comprising Silicon (4 mM) with either Glomus mosseae and Gigaspora gigantean also performed significantly similar for most of the traits studied in the present investigation and better than the treatment only with either one of Glomus mosseae and Gigaspora gigantean. Antioxidant efficiency of melon was certainly appreciably enhanced after incubation with AMF and Si combination in salinity stress. Overall, the application of mycorrhiza and silicon can be considered to overcome the salinity stress in watermelon.

Aims: In an attempt to improve the yields of Citrullus lanatus’s wlêwlê oilseed cultivar, generally low due to the lack of good germination seeds, the effect of fruit age at harvest and fermentation methods were studied. The present study is a contribution to the improvement the African oleaginous Cucurbits seed production system by optimizing the date of harvest combined to seed fermentation methods through enhancement of seed germination and seedling vigor. Study Design: Seedling vigor was evaluated on farm trial using five completely randomized blocks represented by seedbeds constituting each, one replication. Place and Duration of Study: The trials were carried out from July to December 2020, at the experimental farm of the Nangui Abrogoua University in the district of Abidjan, southern of Côte d'Ivoire between 5°17' and 5°31' North latitude and between 3°45' and 4°31' West longitude. Methodology: Fruits from grown plants were harvested at five different times 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 days after anthesis (DAA)] and seeds fermented following four methods fermentation at ambient air (SFA); fermentation in a plastic bag exposed at ambient air (SFB); fermentation in plastic bag buried in 30 cm depth (SFD) and control or non-fermented (NF)]. Seeds from these 20 treatments (5 harvest time × 4 fermentation methods) were sown for viability tests in laboratory and seedling vigor in the field. Results: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that delaying harvest time (from 20 to 40 DAA) significantly (P < .001) improved fruit weight (from 512.20 to 760.50 g) and its seed content (from 71.75 to 230.70 seeds/fruit), seed size (length: 10.69 to 11.42 mm and width: 5.31 to 5.90 mm) and weight (5.16 to 6.37 g) as well as their viability (from 67.75 to 89.50 %). Moreover, in spite of facilitating seed extraction, all three fermentation methods (SFA, SFB and SFD) significantly improved seed viability and seedling vigor compared to control (NF) seeds. The highest agronomic performance (seed viability and produced seedling vigor), was obtained with fermentation under closed and deep confinement (SFD), followed by the closed confinement (SFB) and then by the open environment (SFA). Positive interaction (harvest time × fermentation method) revealed that the best performance was achieved with later harvested seeds (40 DAA) and closed fermented seeds (SFD) which could provide a better seed quality. Conclusion: Agronomic performances (viability and vigor) are influenced by both harvest date and fermentation method. Late harvesting of the fruit (40 DAA) and fermentation in a very confined deep soil condition (SFD) ensures the production of high germination quality seeds.

Natural resistance-associated macrophage proteins (NRAMPs) are able to transport various metal ions across cell membranes, which play an important role in plant growth and development. Here, a survey of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) and watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai] genomes found a total of five CsNRAMPs and four ClNRAMPs, respectively. Based on the phylogenetic relationships, CsNRAMPs and ClNRAMPs were clustered into three groups (I, II, and III). Five orthologous pairs were identified between cucumber and watermelon genome, and they were clustered on the same branch of the phylogenetic tree. The number of introns in CsNRAMPs and ClNRAMPs ranged from 3 to 13 and the genes from group I were more fragmented than those in group II. Subsequently, analysis of promoter sequences found that five putative transcription factors could act on NRAMPs. Moreover, CsNRAMPs and ClNRAMPs were differentially regulated by deficiencies of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), or zinc (Zn), along with toxicities of Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, or cadmium (Cd). Functional analysis by heterologous expression in yeast indicated that CsNRAMP4 and ClNRAMP3 participate in Cd transport. Overall, the comprehensive analysis of CsNRAMPs and ClNRAMPs reported herein may pave the way for further investigations examining the regulation and functions of this gene family in cucumber and watermelon.

The phytoseiid Proprioseiopsis mexicanus has been collected from a wide range of plants in the western hemisphere, including many cucurbit agroecosystems in South Carolina, USA. Our aim was to characterize the lifestyle of P. mexicanus and its potential as a natural enemy of Tetranychus urticae, a common pest in cucurbits. We determined developmental time, pre-oviposition time, and fecundity of females on pollen-only diets from a commercial Typha spp. supplement source, Citrullus lanatus, Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita moschata, Cucurbita pepo, Delosperma cooperi, Trifolium incarnatum, and on T. urticae and a combination of T. urticae and Typha spp. pollen. Female development time differed based on diet—development was fastest on C. lanatus and D. cooperi diets (ca. 3 days) and slowest on Typha pollen diet (ca. 5 days). Pre-oviposition time was shorter for females fed C. lanatus and T. incarnatum (1.6 days) and longest when fed Typha pollen (3.1 days). Citrullus lanatus, T. incarnatum, and D. cooperi pollen diets resulted in more eggs/day compared to other diets. Cucurbita moschata pollen resulted in the lowest oviposition rate (0.69 eggs/day). Because these pollens varied in size, we examined pollen size as a factor in developmental and reproductive success. With the exception of Typha pollen, small-pollen diets (C. lanatus, D. cooperi, and T. incarnatum) resulted in faster development, shorter pre-oviposition time, and higher fecundity than large-pollen diets (Cucurbita spp.). We concluded that P. mexicanus is a generalist predator that may require pollen for survival and reproduction, but alone this species may not be an effective predator of T. urticae.

The experiments were conducted on watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.) at an a private farm in Awlad Amr village, Qena city, Qena, Egypt located between 26° 10′ 0″ N, 32° 43′ 0″ E during the two consecutive spring-summer seasons of 2018 and 2019 respectively to study the effect of three different genotypes used as rootstocks on plant growth performance, fruit yield and quality of three watermelon F1 hybrids. Tongue approach grafting method was used, three hybrids of watermelon which growing on a large scale of the commercial production of watermelons in Egypt namely, Aswan F1, Misr1 F1 and Star F1 was grafted onto three different genotype rootstocks i.e. Cobalt F1, Ferro F1 and New Star F1. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Calculated data revealed that, there are clear significant differences between the grafted and non-grafted plants. Results of yield characteristics and its component, such as fruit weight, fruits length and circumferences and total fruit yield per feddan (ton) (feddan = 0.420 hectares = 1.037 acres), indicated to the superiority of the Misr 1 F1 hybrid which grafted onto Cobalt F1 rootstock, followed by the Aswan F1 when grafted onto Cobalt F1 rootstock. On the other side, Ferro F1 rootstock was poorly adapted with the all commercial hybrids of watermelon under studies.

HIGHLIGHTS Growth and leaf area of mini watermelon in hydroponic cultivation are reduced at electrical conductivity above 4.00 dS m-1. Electrical conductivity of up to 6.90 dS m-1 does not reduce the net photosynthesis of mini watermelon in hydroponic cultivation. Coconut fiber is the best hydroponic substrate for mini watermelon. RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento e os aspectos fisiológicos da mini melancieira ‘Sugar Baby’ em sistema hidropônico com diferentes substratos e misturas de rejeito salino no preparo da solução nutritiva. Para isso, o experimento foi desenvolvido em estufa plástica, usando delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 5 x 4, correspondentes à combinação de cinco misturas de rejeito salino (condutividade elétrica - CE = 9,50 dS m-1) e água de torneira (CE = 0,54 dS m-1) e quatro tipos de substratos (fibra de coco, areia lavada, 70% areia lavada + 30% casca de arroz e 40% areia lavada + 60% casca de arroz), com quatro repetições. O uso da mistura de rejeito salino e água de torneira com CE acima de 4,00 dS m-1 no preparo da solução nutritiva da mini melancieira reduziu de forma acentuada o crescimento das plantas. O aumento da eficiência de carboxilação e da atividade na cadeia transportadora de elétrons, atuam como mecanismos de tolerância para compensar a fotossíntese líquida da mini melancieira sob estresse salino. A fibra de coco proporcionou o melhor crescimento e atividade fotossintética da mini melancieira, e o substrato com 100% areia lavada proporcionou o menor desempenho.

Aim: This study evaluated the antioxidant potentials of methanol seed, pericarp, mesocarp, and whole-fruit extracts and fractions of Citrillus lanatus. Methods: Various extracts and fractions (dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous) of Citrillus lanatus whole-fruit were investigated for 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activities, total phenolic content (TPC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Results: In the DPPH assay, the seed extract showed the highest activity (48%) followed by the whole-fruit extract (27%), pericarp (26%) and the mesocarp (22%) at 100 ug/ml. The whole-fruit fractions also showed improved activity with DCM fraction (64%), ethyl acetate (62%), aqueous fraction (46%) and n-butanol (24%) at 100 ug/ml but the activity observed with ascorbic acid, was much higher (84%). The seed extract had the highest phenolic content (14.30 mg) gallic acid equivalents per gram followed by the pericarp (9.58 mg/g), whole-fruit (6.94 mg/g) and mesocarp (2.78 mg/g). The DCM fraction exhibited the highest TPC (78.19 mg/g) followed by ethyl acetate (61.11 mg/g), aqueous (26.66 mg/g) and n-butanol (10.69 mg/g). FRAP assay showed strongest activity with the whole-fruit extract (0.640nm) followed by seed, mesocarp and pericarp extracts. The DCM fraction showed the highest antioxidant potential (0.735nm) followed by ethyl acetate, aqueous and n-butanol fractions but not comparable to ascorbic acid. Conclusion: The results revealed that C. lanatus seeds, pericarp, mesocarp and whole-fruit extracts and fractions contain varying amounts of flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds which exhibit potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities.

Commercial production of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum & Nakai) is increasing in The Gambia, but tephritid fruit flies present a huge challenge to its production. To avoid severe losses, watermelon growers often resort to indiscriminate use of pesticides to manage the pest. Field studies were conducted at two sites (Faraba and Site 3) in the West Coast Region of The Gambia to evaluate two environmentally friendly options (Success Appat (GF-120) and Cocoa Butter Cream) for management of fruit flies on the crop. Dimethoate insecticide, the farmers’ preferred choice, was used as a chemical check and untreated control plots were also maintained. The field plots were arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design and the treatments were replicated three times. The results of the study showed that, even though three species of fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), Dacus vertebratus Bezzi and Zeugodacus cucurbitae Coquillett were collected at both study sites, only D. vertebratus infested watermelon fruits. Both Success Appat (GF-120) and Cocoa Butter Cream reduced watermelon fruit infestation and, generally, provided comparable protection as the check (Dimethoate) to watermelon fruits against fruit flies and therefore would be suitable replacements.

Citron watermelon [Citrullus lanatus var. citroides (L.H. Bailey) Mansf. ex Greb.] is an important genetic resource serving for food, feed, and breeding dessert watermelon (C. lanatus var. lanatus) and other cross-compatible species. Wide phenotypic variation exists among South African citron watermelon landraces which are yet to be systematicaly assessed for diverse uses and cultivar design. The objective of this study was to assess phenotypic diversity of citron watermelon landrace accessions of South Africa and to select desirable genotypes with suitable agronomic and horticultual traits for direct production, breeding and conservation. Thirty six citron watermelon landrace accessions were evaluated under field conditions in two seasons using a 6 × 6 alpha lattice design with three replicates. Data on key qualitative and quantitative traits were collected and subjected to non-parametric and parametric statistical analyses. The accessions showed wide phenotypic variation and unique traits for genetic improvement. Positive and significant correlations (p

e studied the effects of exogenously applied palmitic acid (PA) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, defense-related enzyme activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content of roots and analyzed the response of defense-related genes in Fusarium oxysporum f.sp.niveum (FON) inoculated watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. et Nakai). Our results showed that as compared to control, PA reduced the morbidity of Fusarium wilt by 33.3 % and disease severity by 53.2 %, increased the level of ROS of watermelon roots at early infection stage and the activity of defense related enzymes, and decreased the MDA content of watermelon roots. Moreover, PA up-regulated the expression of disease defense-related genes. These results suggested that PA promoted the accumulation of ROS and up-regulated the transcript level of defense-related genes and eventually induced the systemic resistance in watermelon against FON.

Fusarium wilt is a widespread disease causing serious production losses in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.). Accordingly, control agents to manage this disease should be developed to ensure the su...

The loss of methyl bromide led vegetable growers to rely more heavily on herbicides to control weeds. Although herbicides can be effective, limited options in vegetable production challenge growers. Identifying new, effective tools to be applied over plastic mulch before planting, for improved weed control with minimal crop injury, would be beneficial. The objective of these experiments was to evaluate the persistence of preplant applications of glyphosate (1,125 or 2,250 g ae ha-1) plus 2,4-D (1,065 or 2,130 g ae ha-1) or dicamba (560 g ae ha-1) over plastic mulch, using analytical techniques and subsequent yellow squash and watermelon response. Glyphosate and 2,4-D were not analytically detected at damaging concentrations on plastic mulch when at least 3.5 cm of rainfall was received after application and before planting. In addition, bioassay results showing less than 10% visual injury for either squash and watermelon, with no growth or yield suppression observed, supported analytical results. In contrast, dicamba concentrations on plastic mulch, regardless of rainfall amount or time between application and planting, remained at damaging levels. Squash yields were reduced by dicamba applied 1 to 30 d before planting, whereas watermelon was more resilient. 2,4-D plus glyphosate applied preplant over plastic mulch can provide an additional herbicide option for vegetable growers. More research is needed to understand the impact of residual activity of 2,4-D when transplants land directly in holes in plastic mulch at the time of application. The relationship of dicamba with plastic mulch is complex, because the herbicide cannot be easily removed by rainfall. Thus, dicamba should not be included in a weed management system in plasticulture vegetable production. Nomenclature: Glyphosate; 2; 4-D; dicamba; squash; Cucurbita pepo L.; watermelon; Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai

Aims: To evaluate the chemical, microbiological, physico-chemical and sensory properties of fruit juice produced from blends of soursop, mango and watermelon. Study Design: The data obtained were analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 20. The mean and standard deviation were calculated using analysis of variance. Means were separated by Duncan’s new multiple range test. Place and Duration of Study: The study took place at the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka between January and July, 2016. Methodology Juices extracted from Soursop Mango and Watermelon (designated as S, M and W respectively) were blended to give samples containing soursop, mango and watermelon juices in the ratio of 60:25:15, 15:60:25, 25:15:60 and 33.3:33.3:33.3, respectively. The samples were processed, bottled and analyzed for proximate, phytochemical and micronutrients composition, physico-chemical, microbial and sensory qualities using standard methods. Results: There were significant (p < 0.05) differences in the proximate composition, micro-nutrient and phytochemical composition of the mixed fruit juice blend. The moisture content, ash content, crude fiber, crude fat, crude protein and carbohydrate ranged from 85.0 to 90.03%, 0.14 to 0.6%, 0.95 to 2.94%, 0.19 to 0.44%, 0.75 to 1.72% and 7.23 to 11.48% respectively. pH, brix and Titratable acidity of samples varied significantly (p < 0.05) and ranged from 5.92 to 6.11%, 8.85 to 12.80% and 0.38 to 0.69% respectively. The flavonoid, total phenol and pro-vitamin A contents of the blends ranged from 9.14 to11.04%, 0.3 to 0.5% and 13.01 to 72.9% respectively. Vitamin C, potassium and calcium contents ranged from 28.25 to 41.75 mg/100ml, 108.32 to 168.92 mg/100 ml and 7.05 to 12.69 mg/100 ml respectively. The microbial results showed that total viable count found present in the mixed fruit juice blended samples ranged from 3.0 x 101 to 9.0 x 101. The sensory scores showed that all the samples were generally accepted while sample which had equal proportions of the individual juices had the highest overall acceptability due to the homogeneity, luscious taste, appearance and consistency of the blend. The overall results showed that improving the quality and availability of fruit and fruit products through processing will raise consumer awareness, boost fruit consumption and improve health, check post-harvest losses and harness the therapeutic advantages of fruits. Blending of soursop, mango and watermelon juices in varying proportions produced acceptable juice that compared favorably with a commercial mixed juice blend in terms of vitamins C and pro-vitamin A content, total sugar, brix content and acidity.

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai was a climacteric variety with a high respiration rate and ethylene accumulation. Therefore the fruit matures and softeness quickly during post-harvest period. Calcium chloride was popularly utilized as stabilizing agent. 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) has been known to be highly effective inhibitor of ethylene reaction. This research evaluated the synergistic effect of CaCl2 and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment to weight loss, firmness, total soluble solid, carotenoid, ascorbic acid and decay rate of watermelon during storage. Results showed that a combination of 2.5% CaCl2 and 0.6 ppm 1-MCP in 20 min of immersion could extend watermelon shelf life for 15 days. After 15 days of ambient storage, the weight loss (1.43±0.02 %), firmness (4.38±0.00 N), total soluble solid (13.60±0.01 oBrix), carotenoid (16.31±0.02 µg/100g), ascorbic acid (13.36±0.03 mg/100g), decay rate (0.47±0.02 %) were clearly presented. Meanwhile, the treatment of 2.5% CaCl2 alone showed the weight loss (2.11±0.02 %), firmness (3.03±0.02 N), total soluble solid (10.83±0.02 oBrix), carotenoid (12.97±0.03 µg/100g), ascorbic acid (9.57±0.02 mg/100g), decay rate (2.14±0.01 %). The incorporation of CaCl2 and 1-MCP created a synergistic effect on the improved quality of watermelon fruit during ambient storage.

Since foods rich in L-citrulline are important for vascular health, it is important to determine the amount of this compounds in foods present in the human diet. Therefore, the present study evaluated storage stability of L-citrulline in cucumber rind and pulp juices and to compare them with watermelon rind and pulp juices. The L-citrulline stability was evaluated for 12 days at refrigerated condition (4 oC). Since L-arginine is an amino acid involved in L-citrulline metabolism, L-arginine content was also evaluated. On the initial day, L-citrulline content in cucumber rind and pulp was lower when compared to watermelon rind and pulp juices, respectively. A significative reduction in L-citrulline content in cucumber rind and pulp and watermelon pulp juices was observed in day 6 and day 12 when compared to the first day. However, L-citrulline content was stable for 12 days in watermelon rind juice. A significative reduction in L-arginine content was also observed in cucumber pulp and watermelon pulp juices, but not in cucumber rind and watermelon rind juices in day 6 and day 12 when compared to the first day. The results suggested that L-citrulline in cucumber rind and pulp and watermelon pulp juices were unstable at refrigerated conditions for 12 days.

Background: Hyperlipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Cucumeropsis mannii and Citrullus lanatus commonly called pumpkin seeds or egussi, the oil-rich seeds, have already demonstrated hypolipidemic activity. In Africa, these seeds are popularly used in the preparation of local foods. During that thermal process, the fatty acid content of pumpkin seeds’ oils may be altered in their functionality. Thus, this work aims at studying the effect of stifled cooking on the quality and the lipid-lowering potential of oils’ extracts from Citrullus lanatus (CL) and Cucumeropsis mannii (CM). Methods: The oils were extracted from the pumpkin seeds (raw and cooked) by a mixture of chloroform and methanol (2/1). The acid, iodine, peroxide and thiobarbituric acid value of the oils were assessed. For 28 days, the oils were subsequently administered by oral intubation to high-fat diet induced hyperlipidemic rats. At the end of the experimentation, the lipid profile, the markers of the hepatic and kidney function were determined. Results: The oils extracted from raw CL and CM significantly reduced (p˂0,05) serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, uric acid, serum transaminases, creatinine, urea and increases the serum High Density Lipoprotein (HDL)cholesterol level relative to the oils extracted from cooked CM and CL. Moreover, the oil from cooked CL significantly (p

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of climate-smart integrated fertilizer management on proximate qualities and lycopene contents of three watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)varieties grown in sandy loam soil. The experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of the Department of Agricultural Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka between the months of Augustto October 2017cropping season. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design, with three replications, three main plots (Citrullus lanatus varieties (Sugar baby, Koalack and Charleston grey))and six sub-plots (fertilization treatments). Climate-smart integrated fertilizer considered was combination of Goat manure (GM) and Nitrogen Phosphorus PotassiumNPK15: 15: 15 fertilizer which is regarded as most nutrient-rich fertilizer with climate change mitigation and adaptation potential. The study found that the pH of the watermelon varieties were statistically similar and that Charleston grey treated with 50 kg ha-1NPK + 15 t ha-1GM had the highest interactive effect on pH value which was statistically similar with 100 kg ha-1NPK + 10 t ha-1GM treatment. It was discovered that Koalack variety had the highest moisture contents when treated with 100 kg ha-1NPK + 10 t ha-1GM, crude protein content when treated with 150 kg ha-1NPK + 5 t ha-1GM, crude fibre content when treated with 20 t ha-1GM, ether extract and total soluble solid contents when treated with 50 kg ha-1NPK + 15 t ha-1GM. For the lycopene content, it was found that Sugar baby variety had the highest mean value (0.61g/100g) when compared with Charleston grey and Koalack varieties. Sugar baby variety treated with 20t/ha-1GM had highest (0.89g/100g) interactive effect when compared with other varieties and fertilizer treatments. In conclusion, the proximate qualities and lycopene contents of the three varieties increased with the increase in the amount of GM contents of the fertilizer combinations in sandy loam soil. Climate-smart integrated fertilizer improves the proximate qualities of Koalack variety and the lycopene contents of Sugar baby variety more than in other varieties grown in the same sandy loam soil. Therefore, climate-smart integrated fertilizer is recommended for the production of the identified Citrullus lanatus varieties as a nutrition sensitive production strategy in sandy loam soils by farmers in study area.

Aim: Citrullus lanatus is a fruit widely consumed for its pulp though incompletely, as its other parts (seed and rind) are discarded and may possibly offer bioactive compounds involved in ameliorating certain disease conditions. Hence, this study aimed at comparatively investigating the nutritional composition and antioxidant properties of the seed, pulp and rind of C. lanatus so as to inform the inclusion of these different parts into the fare of the people. Methodology: Standard analytical methods of Association of Official Analytical Chemists were used to determine proximate, phytochemical, vitamin, mineral and antioxidant aspects of the fruit parts. The results were analyzed using Student’s t-test at .05. Results: The proximate analysis showed a high moisture value in the pulp (93.34 +/- .82) followed by the rind (77.11 +/- 3.44) and the seed (10.00 +/- .48). High crude protein and fiber contents were both noted in the seed followed by the rind and pulp. Mineral determinations revealed potassium to be abundant in the rind (452.31mg/kg) than the seed (305.7mg/kg) and the pulp (100.5mg/kg), followed by calcium occurring more in the rind (292.61mg/kg) than in the pulp (257.21mg/kg) and seed (227.45mg/kg) and then manganese being the least concentrated among the minerals. The investigated phytochemical principles revealed the highest concentration of cardiac glycosides in the seed (14.82 +/- .66) than the rind (1.95 +/- 0.80) and pulp (1.10 +/- 0.17), followed by saponins occurring most in the rind (12.05 +/- 3.91) than the seed (10.17 +/- 0.63) and pulp (.13 +/- .01). The seed had the highest DPPH scavenging activity followed by the rind and pulp respectively. The seed also showed a higher reducing power and lipid peroxidation capacities than the other fruit parts suggesting a potent property for antioxidant activity in the fruit parts of C. lanatus. Conclusion: The findings imply that both seed and rind of C. lanatus can be good sources of nutritional, phytochemical and antioxidant components in addition to the pulp which is commonly consumed and these may be implicated in management of certain diseases with further evidential research.

Pumpkin rootstock affects watermelon scion growth, fruit yield, and quality, but the mechanisms of related key enzymes and photosynthesis remain unclear. In this study, net photosynthetic rate (PN), chlorophyll (Chl) fluorescence parameters, fruit mass and sugar accumulation, and related key enzyme activities were determined during the fruit development stage in diploid and triploid watermelon lines and corresponding pumpkin rootstock-grafted lines. The results showed that pumpkin rootstock increased PN and Chl fluorescence parameters of diploid and triploid watermelon, indicating that pumpkin rootstock could increase photosynthesis, the utilization efficiency of light energy of diploid and triploid watermelon lines. Pumpkin-grafted lines had higher alkaline α-galactosidase activity and lower activities of insoluble acid invertase, sucrose phosphate synthase, and sucrose synthase than corresponding own-root lines in diploid and triploid watermelon. It indicates that pumpkin rootstock could increase the unloading of photoassimilates and reduce the conversion of photoassimilates into sucrose in diploid and triploid watermelon fruits.

The watermelons are valuable vegetables. The research aim has been to establish of the technological stages for producing of Dutch and Romanian scion and rootstock seedlings from Citrullus lanatus, Cucumis metuliferus, Benicasa hispida and Lagenaria siceraria, to obtain some compatible phenotypes to grafting. The experience was carried out on a cultivars collection consisting from a Dutch watermelon scion (Baronesa F1 hybrid, Sugar baby type), two Romanian rootstocks (Kiwano and Zefir) and a Dutch rootstock (Pelops F1 hybrid). The scion and rootstock diameters have been correlated for manual grafting, cutting with a cotyledonous leaf and method by splice in silicone clip. The technological stages for obtaining of grafted watermelons have been established for the researched genotypes. These genotypic combinations (C. lanatus x C. metuliferus, C. lanatus x B. hispida, C. lanatus x L. siceraria) have been compatible for watermelon grafting in south area of Romania.

Field experiments in two different locations were conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, (Saba-Basha) - Alexandria University, during summer season of 2018/2019. The main objective was to investigate the effectiveness of different combinations of compost types on yield and quality of watermelon (cv.Skata F1 hyprid). The study was conducted with randomized complete block design with three replicates. Seven treatments were carried out in this investigation i.e. (T1-Jojoba leaves compost, T2-Compost A,T3-Compost B, T4-Compost C, T5-Compost D, T6-Compost E and T7- Control treatment (R100% NPK). The effects of the treatments on the growth and yield of watermelon were determined. Application of different types of compost increased the vine length, number of leaves, number of branches, number of fruits/plant, average fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, mineral contents of leaves and fruits and improved total fruit yield. The obtained results indicated generally that application of chicken manure (T6) produced the highest values of all yield and its components and chemical composition of watermelon plants during both locations compared with the inorganic treatment. Also,Jojoba leaves compost (T1) and compost B ( 100% Compost A + PGPR) gave the highest mean values of the chlorophyll content in leaves character. In addition to Compost C ( 50% Compost A + 50% Chicken manure) gave the best results in mineral content of leaves characters. The findings in this study strongly recommended that chicken manure, beneficial microbes (PGPR), plant composted residues and kitchen wastes would be advantage if the farmer's target is to maximize watermelon yield.

Watermelon seed being an oily seed is prone to rapid deterioration of its quality, hence maintaining quality during storage is germane. The study therefore investigated the effect of crude plant powder, storage containers and storage duration on the seed quality of two varieties of watermelon seeds. Seed lots each of 100 g of each variety were treated with 10 g of four crude plant powders of clove basil leaf, red chilli pepper fruit, garlic, neem leaf and a synthetic fungicide. All samples were stored in three storage containers (envelope, tin and glass bottle). Treated seeds were stored under ambient conditions for 180 days. Germination and seedling vigour were determined at 180 day time course after storage. Data were subjected to mean separation using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Significant differences were observed in the quality traits examined in water melon due to differences in variety, seed treatment, storage container and storage period. ‘Kaolak’ was the best in storage in terms of seedling vigour and viability. Glass bottle was identified as the best storage container in maintaining seed quality of water melon throughout the storage period. The use of organic materials especially neem and clove basil leaf powder proved much better for maintaining germinability and seedling vigour and extension of seed longevity than inorganic material.

Landlords and cultivators of watermelon ( Citrullus lanatus) and several other types of melons ( Cucumis melo var. Cantalupensis, Cucumis melo var. Reticulatus, Cucumis melo var. Cucumis melo Inodorusvar, etc.) complained about soil degradation due to cultivation of melons without judicious use of pesticides. Conducting a field survey on the use of pesticides and the prevalence of pesticide residues in the soil of melon-cultivated areas, the study investigates the authenticity of such claims and figures out the actual reasons for such land degradation. The survey was carried out on 150 farmers from 30 villages in Kyaukse, Myitthar and Tada U Township in Mandalay division of Myanmar. The survey captures information on pesticide-related awareness, attitudes and practices and identifies possible health and environmental risks. The usage, storage and handling of pesticides by most of the respondents were found not safe, and knowledge on the adverse effects of pesticides on health, crops and the environment was found to be inadequate. The findings have indicated the potential risk of soil degradation. It appears that lack of cooperation among the government, non-governmental organisations (NGO), private sector stakeholders and farmers is the key weakness for improving agricultural practices adopted by farmers. Enhancing the awareness, changing the attitudes and improving the practices of the farmers regarding the use of pesticides may be the key step towards addressing this issue.

The study was conducted in March-May 2020 in greenhouse in Erzincan Horticultural Research Institute. Sahra F1 variety of watermelon (Citrulus lanatus) was used as plant material in the experiment. In this study, the effects of different doses (0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150 and 175 ppm) of Tebuconazole substance on the quality and development of watermelon seedlings were investigated. It was determined that different dose applications caused a significant change in seedling characteristics According to the data obtained, a average reduction of 38.45% and 17.81% was achieved in seedling length and stem length, respectively, compared to the control application. Also, the stem diameter increased in 3.03% after the applications. The all doses applications also provided an increase in leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD). In this study, applications of Tebuconazole at different doses were found to control the seedling height in watermelon and positively affected on specific quality characteristics of seedlings.

To determine the allelopathic potential of phenolic acids on watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb), we studied the inhibitory activities of 21 phenolic acids on watermelon seeds germination. The quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) method using the comparative molecular field analysis and comparative molecular similarity index analysis was used to elucidate the relationships between the inhibitory activities and structural characteristics. The results showed that half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were in ~µg/mL. The QSAR calculations suggested that the allelopathic inhibitory activities were increased when substituents had large moieties at 1/2/3/4-positions, negative charge at 1/3-position, a H-bond donor at 4-position and a H-bond acceptor at 2-position.

Pythium species cause root and stem rot in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), but cucurbit rootstocks used to graft watermelon have not been evaluated for resistance. P. aphanidermatum and P. myriotylum were inoculated onto 15 nongrafted watermelon, citron (Citrullus amarus), bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria), and interspecific hybrid squash (Cucurbita maxima × C. moschata) cultivars in a growth chamber. Watermelon was more susceptible than bottle gourd and interspecific hybrid squash at 20 and 30°C. Twenty-one cultivars were inoculated in a field with an equal blend of both Pythium species. Interspecific hybrid squash was less susceptible than bottle gourd and watermelon in 2018 and 2019. Seedless watermelon cultivar Tri-X 313 was grafted to one citron, one bottle gourd, and three interspecific hybrid squash rootstocks. Plants were inoculated in the field as described. Grafting to interspecific hybrid squash rootstocks reduced disease incidence compared with nongrafted controls in 2018 and 2019. Mefenoxam and propamocarb applied at transplanting did not affect disease compared with non-fungicide-treated plots. Grafting to interspecific hybrid squash Camelforce significantly increased total and marketable fruit numbers and total weight in 2019 compared with the nongrafted control. In summary, interspecific hybrid squash was consistently resistant to Pythium, demonstrating resistance and utility in watermelon grafting.