With the continuous advancement in hybrid watermelon varieties, the production of hybrid watermelon seeds has evolved into a vital industry in many rural areas. However, challenges such as maintaining high yield and quality have hindered the industry's rapid growth. Based on years of practical experience in seed production, we have developed a comprehensive set of techniques that are outlined below:
First, preparation before sowing.
(1) Selecting suitable bases and plots for seed production is crucial. The area should have a favorable climate, sufficient land, water sources, and labor. It is essential to isolate the seed production field from other watermelon fields by at least 1,000 meters. The soil should be deep (at least 30 cm), well-drained, and free from previous cucurbit crops for 7–8 years. This ensures optimal conditions for healthy plant growth.
Before winter, plow the land to a depth of 30 cm. Avoid tilling after plowing. In early spring, after thawing, replant the field. During plowing, apply 3,000–4,000 kg of organic manure per mu, along with 50 kg of superphosphate and 15 kg of potassium sulfate. Mix these thoroughly and prepare the soil for planting.
(2) Seed treatment plays a key role in ensuring uniformity and quality. Inspect the parent seeds based on size, color, shape, and pattern. Soak the seeds in warm water (55–60°C) for 15 minutes while stirring, then rinse them. Place the seeds in wet sand or sandy soil in a ratio of 5:1, and store them in a container at 30–35°C. After about 40 hours, most seeds will begin to sprout and can be sown.
Second, sowing.
(1) Cultivation methods should facilitate easy identification in the fall and reduce costs. Using plastic mulch is recommended. For artificial pollination, the parent ratio is typically 1:10 to 1:15 depending on the combination.
Proper planting density increases yield. Spacing varies based on soil and variety. Early maturing varieties are planted at 1,800–2,000 plants per mu with row spacing of 120–130 cm. Mid-late maturing varieties are planted at 1,500–1,600 plants per mu with row spacing of 140–150 cm.
(b) Timing and method: The female parent should be sown 7–8 days before the last frost, while the male parent should be sown 7–10 days earlier to ensure adequate pollen availability. To protect against frost, cover the male plants with a small arch after the last frost. Sow the seeds with the shoot tip down, covering them with 1.5–3.0 cm of soil, then cover with plastic film. Ensure the ground is level, slightly raised in the middle, and tightly covered to prevent wind damage. Alternatively, pre-install the film and sow through it, increasing the cover thickness if necessary.
Third, fertilization and irrigation management.
(a) From sowing to the emergence of the first true leaf, which takes about 7–13 days, monitor seedlings closely. Remove the film promptly to avoid overheating. Ensure the seedling holes are tightly sealed to prevent rotting. If using membrane-breaking planting, avoid over-covering the seeds, as this may hinder germination.
(b) During the seedling stage (from first true leaf to five to six true leaves), which lasts 25–30 days, control soil moisture to prevent excessive elongation. Focus on proper cultivation practices.
(c) During vine extension (from the fifth true leaf to the second female flower), which takes about 18–20 days, ensure sufficient water supply. Before vine spread, apply 100–150 kg of decomposed cake fertilizer or 750–1,000 kg of mature manure per mu, mixed with 5 kg of urea. Increase watering to promote root development. Later, control water to manage vine growth, reduce nutrient consumption, and encourage female flower development.
(d) During the fruiting period (from the second female flower to ripening), which lasts 28–45 days, strictly control irrigation. Perform timely pruning, girdling, de-budding, and pollination to increase fruit setting. Apply 20–25 kg of compound or watermelon-specific fertilizer per mu during watering to promote fruit growth and prevent premature aging. Spray a mixture of 0.2% urea and 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate on the leaves before and after fruit set. Reduce watering when the fruit reaches physiological maturity to prevent cracking.
Fourth, vine management.
In general, the female parent is pruned to one main vine, leaving the first few female flowers. The first female flower should be removed as soon as possible. The male parent is left with 4–5 vines. Secure the vines to prevent damage from wind. Press the vines in the afternoon to avoid breakage. Trim the top of the vines before and after fruit set to maintain balance.
Fifth, manual pollination.
(a) Pollination usually begins 50–55 days after the female parent emerges and lasts about 5–7 days. Ideal temperatures range between 23–27°C. Approximately two laborers per acre are needed.
(b) Preparation work includes tools like plastic caps, tea boxes, wet towels, and colored cloth or wool ropes. A homemade paper cap can be made by cutting old newspaper into strips and wrapping them around a stick. Twist the top and remove the stick to create a cap.
Before pollination, carefully inspect both parents and remove any off-types. Pay special attention to the male plants, checking leaf color, shape, vine structure, and fruit appearance. Mistakes here can lead to serious contamination. The female parent can be weeded at any time during the growing season and should be removed before harvest.
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