Work

Effect of Trickle Irrigation and Black Mulch on Growth, Yield, and Mineral Composition of Watermelon

Year: 1988

Type: article

Abstract: Response of watermelon [ Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai cv. Charleston Gray] to factorial combinations of trickle irrigation or no irrigation and black polyethylene mulch or no mulch was evaluated during 2 successive years on a southwestern Indiana Lyles fine sandy loam. Both trickle irrigation and polyethylene mulch, alone and in various combinations, increased stem growth and early and total yields of watermelon compared to untreated watermelons. Greatest stem growth and early and total yields were obtained from plants grown on polyethylene mulch in combination with trickle irrigation. Mean fruit weight did not vary with treatment. Trickle-irrigated watermelon plants produced shallow rooting near trickle emitters; nonirrigated plants produced relatively extended, deep, and diffuse roots. Petiole Zn concentration was greater in plants grown on polyethylene mulch than no mulch. Trickle irrigation resulted in a decreased concentration of petiole Mn.

Source: HortScience

DOI: 10.21273/hortsci.23.1.123

Author: H. S. Bhella

Institutions: Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Vegetable Laboratory

Language: English

Topic: Irrigation Practices and Water Management

Subfield: Soil Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,000