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Watermelon farming in India is a great option for both small and large farmers. This fruit grows best in warm climates with fertile, well-drained soil.
Watermelon farming in India is a great option for both small and large farmers. This fruit grows best in warm climates with fertile, well-drained soil. By following good land preparation, seed selection, irrigation, nutrition, and pest control, you can achieve a juicy and high-yield harvest. Understanding each stage of growth helps you avoid common problems and improve fruit quality.
Go through this guide to know simple, efficient steps towards a successful harvest.
Growing watermelons requires planning and following key steps in order. Read these steps carefully and apply them with care to grow healthy plants and sweet fruits.
Watermelons grow best in sandy or loamy soil that drains well and gets plenty of sunlight. Proper land preparation is the first step to a healthy crop, and many farmers prefer using a Swaraj Tractor for this task. With its strength, fuel economy, and simple operation, it works to deep plough the field, eliminate weeds, and remove stones at a quick rate.
Soil pH and nutrient content should be determined prior to planting. It is best at between 6.0 and 7.0. Lime or sulfur may need to be added, in addition to compost or manure, to fertilize the soil.
Choose the type that suits your local weather, like Kiran, Arjun, or Sugar Baby. Soak seeds in water or a weak fungicide overnight to improve sprouting. Moreover, you can plant seeds directly in the soil or start them in trays to protect young plants.
Plant 2-3 seeds per hole, 2-3 cm deep, and keep the soil moist with a space of 1.5 to 2 meters. When seedlings have 2-3 true leaves, throw away all except the best one to grow well with enough air, light, and nutrients.
The fruit required regular irrigation, especially during planting, flowering, and fruit growth. To avoid root problems, it’s best to use drip or furrow methods, as they prevent too much moisture from sitting in the soil. Generally, do the process once or twice a week, but during hot weather, you may need to water more often.
Later, about 2-3 weeks before harvest, reduce watering to help make the fruit sweeter. Also, check the soil by hand; it should feel damp, not too wet. Moreover, using mulch like straw, leaves, or plastic helps to keep the soil moist, stops weeds, and prevents wastage.
The plants need the right nutrients to grow well and give good fruit. Before planting, use a balanced fertilizer like 10:20:10 and mix in compost or animal manure to improve the soil. This will give the young plants a good foundation. Also, inspect the soil to determine what nutrients are lacking.
The plant can be attacked by pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and fruit flies and diseases like powdery mildew and downy mildew. Watch your fields closely once the plants begin to grow. Early detection and prompt action prevent extensive damage.
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to manage pests and diseases with fewer chemicals:
Also, avoid waterlogging and keep good spacing between plants to reduce the chance of fungal diseases. If using mulch, ensure moisture doesn’t collect under it.
The fruit is ready to harvest when the fruit skin loses its shine and becomes dull. Also, the tendril closest to the stem dries up and turns brown. When you tap the fruit lightly, it should sound hollow.
Perform this process early in the morning or late evening to avoid heat stress. Cut the stem with a clean knife, leaving 5-0 cm attached. Farmers usually prefer using a New Holland tractor for this process to quickly and safely transport the fruit from the field. Handle watermelons gently to prevent bruising. After harvesting, sort the fruit by size and quality, then move them quickly to storage or market to keep them fresh.
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