Vol. 12, Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
Pansare UD, Kshirsagar AV, Dhakne VR and Bochare SV

Abstract:
Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) also known as nutmeg melon or kharbooj is crop of Cucurbitaceae family. Among the cucurbits, muskmelon is known for its unique flavor and taste. Muskmelon is rich in vitamin A and C. It is composed of 90% water and 9% carbohydrates. Monoecious or andro-monoecious vines are existing in muskmelon crop. Muskmelons grows best in well-drained loamy to sandy loamy texture of soil. The optimum temperature for its growth is 20-25 ℃. Muskmelon is a summer crop can be cultivated in kharif and rabi season. In Maharashtra 1.5 x 0.5 m spacing is recommended for higher yield and quality fruits in open field conditions. is 500-800 g/ha seed of F1 hybrids sufficient for one-hectare muskmelon plantation. Flowering, fruit setting and fruit development are the important crop growth stages for irrigation. Different growth regulators are used for sex modification. 250 ppm ethrel is often recommended to increase number of female flowers. Muskmelon grafting techniques helps in managing Fusarium wilt, soil-borne disease. One cotyledon or splice grafting, Hole insertionand approach grafting are the commonly used grafting methods. For off-season muskmelon cultivation farmers were adopting low plastic tunnel technique. Balance supply of nutrients is necessary for higher fruit yield and quality production. Bioferilizers like azospirillum and phosphobacteria are used in integrated nutrient management system. Fruit is generally ready for harvesting 90 to 110 days after sowing, depending on variety and agro-climatic conditions. Full slip and half slip stage are the harvesting stages for muskmelon. The harvested fruits can be stored for 5-10 days at 5 ℃ temperature and 95 percent relative humidity. Powdery mildew, Downy mildew, Fusarium wilt are the important diseases of muskmelon. Aphid, fruit fly attack can significantly reduce the muskmelon yield.