In greenhouse-grown melons, particularly those cultivated using double-membrane techniques, the fruit set rate is generally low, and fruit drop is a significant problem. According to field surveys, some farms report fruit shedding rates exceeding 70%, with muskmelons being especially vulnerable. This not only reduces yield and quality but also delays market timing, leading to lower profitability.
The main causes behind this issue include excessive use of basal fertilizers, especially available nitrogen, which leads to leggy growth and suppresses flower bud differentiation. Low temperatures also play a role, as they hinder the development of reproductive organs. Additionally, high humidity and overly moist soil conditions can impede leaf transpiration and root function, while also affecting pollen viability and dispersal, thereby reducing successful pollination. Insufficient light further exacerbates the problem by causing elongated stems and poor flower bud development, resulting in reduced nutrient accumulation and lower sugar content in the fruits.
To improve fruit setting in melons, several strategies should be implemented. First, enhancing the growing environment is essential. Drainage around the planting area should be improved to promote healthy root growth. Plastic films should be cracked open early to allow for better light penetration and insulation. During rainy days, greenhouse or base films should be opened to let in diffuse light.
Second, managing plant growth is crucial. Applying paclobutrazol in fields where melon vines are overgrown can help control vegetative growth. A recommended application is 40 grams of wettable powder per acre mixed with 50 kg of water, which effectively reduces vine growth and promotes ovary development and fruit enlargement.
Third, inducing female flower setting can significantly boost fruit set. Using products like "Sitting Guaconazole" or "Fruit Spawning Solution" on female flowers can increase fruit set rates beyond 90%. The method involves applying a 200-400 times dilution of the solution to the fruiting parts in the afternoon when the female flowers are open, or spreading a 10-20 times diluted solution on the stem.
Finally, artificial pollination is an effective technique. Since melons have separate male and female flowers on the same plant, manual pollination can be done by transferring pollen from male to female flowers. Each male flower can pollinate 2-3 female flowers, or a dry brush can be used to gently brush the stigma of the female flowers. This should be done between 7 and 9 am daily for best results.
By implementing these measures, growers can significantly improve fruit set, reduce fruit drop, and enhance both yield and quality of their melon crops.
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