Muskmelon and watermelon are warm-season crops that thrive at temperatures between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. To enhance production, the use of advanced farming techniques is essential. According to agricultural scientists, muskmelon and watermelon can be cultivated in all types of soil, but loamy and sandy soil is considered the most suitable.
To prepare the field, plow 2-3 times using a cultivator, followed by harrowing to make the soil loose and friable. At the time of the final plowing, mix 200-250 quintals of well-decomposed farmyard manure per hectare into the soil.
The basin method is considered the best for sowing. Prepare furrows 45-60 cm wide and 30-40 cm deep in the east-west direction. Maintain a distance of 2-2.5 feet between furrows. On one side of each furrow, create basins at intervals of 50-60 cm and sow 2-3 seeds at a depth of 1-2 cm or transplant healthy seedlings.
For muskmelon cultivation, apply Nitrogen: Phosphorus: Potassium (NPK) at a ratio of 80:75:50 kg per hectare. Apply half of the nitrogen and the full dose of phosphorus and potassium at the time of sowing or transplanting. Apply the remaining nitrogen after 30-40 days.
Fertilizer Management for Watermelon:
For watermelon, apply NPK at 80:60:60 kg per hectare. Apply one-third of the nitrogen, along with the full dose of phosphorus and potassium, at the time of sowing or transplanting. The remaining nitrogen should be applied in two equal doses—once after 25-30 days and again after 40-45 days.
Irrigation Management: Provide 5-6 irrigations as per the crop's requirement. For plant growth, apply water-soluble fertilizer NPK 18:18:18 (1 kg per 200 liters of water) as a foliar spray. For drip irrigation, use 3-4 kg per hectare.
Pest and Disease Control:
Read More- How to do Watermelon Cultivation
