ADVANCED LARGE-FRUITED F1 HYBRIDS OF WATERMELON FOR SOUTH ZONE OF THE AMUR REGION

The result of the study of 12 watermelon hybrids of foreign breeding in condition of south zone of the Amur region is presented. The varieties characteristics and agro-technical recommendations are provided. The productivity of the most promising F1 hybrid, Shakura, was 33 kg per plant at average weight of fruit 11-12 kg. Amount of mature fruits per plant in hybrids Baraka, Bomba, and Krimson Rubi was the same as in hybrid Shakura, but average weight of fruit and productivity of these hybrids were lower (9.9 – 11.2 kg per plant). The hybrid Тор Gаn F1 developed a minimal number of fruit, but it was early ripening as compared with other hybrids. By comparison with the local varieties, all tested genotypes have bigger marketable fruits, higher yield, and good eating qualities.