Growth and Yield Performance of Watermelon during Dry and Wet Seasons under Tropical Conditions

ABSTRACT

In the tropics, low yield of watermelon [(Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus (Thunb.)] is, in part, due to use of low-yielding watermelon cultivars. Use of adaptable, high-yielding cultivars in tropical areas may enhance watermelon productivity. This study was undertaken to assess the influence of environmental conditions on growth and yield of watermelon cvs. Sugarbaby South Africa, Sugarbaby East Africa, Crimson Sweet, Patanegra F1, Zuri F1, and Sukari F1. The field experiment was conducted between October 2011 and February 2012 (dry season) and March 2012 and May 2012 (wet season). Data on yield, vegetative and reproductive performance were collected. Cultivar affected vine length and fruit weight. There was little difference between cultivars regarding growth and development and yield. There was a significant, positive correlation for number of fruit to number of nodes and fruit weight. Cultivars with better performance on these traits may have good yield. It appears that for improved yield it is better to produce these varieties during the wet season.

KEYWORDS:

• Citrullus lanatus
• evaluation
• variety
• yield components

Acknowledgments

Thanks are due to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, and the Government of Tanzania for giving study leave to the first author.

Additional information

Funding

Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology is gratefully acknowledged for financial support of the study.