Watermelon is a demanding and nutritious fruit in summer. It is widely cultivated in India with the choice of farmers in different regions. The juicy and sweet taste of watermelon makes it a favourite among people, and its cultivation can be an amazing activity for farmers. In this comprehensive guide, we will learn the essential components of watermelon farming in India, providing benefits and insights for both farmers and beginners.
Where did the first watermelon farming appear?
Watermelon farming was first practised in arid regions of Africa, wherein the wild ancestor of the modern watermelon is Citrullus lanatus var. Lanatus thrives in hot and dry weather. Archaeological proof suggests that watermelons were cultivated in ancient Egypt over 4,000 years ago, with depictions located in symbols and seeds located in tombs.
From Egypt, the cultivation of watermelons spread to other elements of Africa and sooner or later reached the Mediterranean area. The Moors added watermelons to Europe all through their profession in Spain, and from there, the fruit progressively made its way to other continents through change and exploration.
Over time, as explorers and buyers over the globe, watermelon seeds were carried to numerous regions due to the diversification of watermelon types and the status of watermelon farming in one-of-a-kind parts of the region. Today, watermelon cultivation is an international phenomenon with a wealthy history rooted in the historic agricultural practices of Africa and the Middle East.
1. Selecting the Right Variety:
Selecting the proper type of watermelon seed is important at the time you grow in fields. In India, there are various popular varieties of watermelon. Out of which, we’re offering names of a few of them, which include Black Magic, Sugar Baby, and Arka Manik. However, before going for these specific types, you must remember elements together with climate, soil kind, and market call before making your choice.
2. Land Preparation:
Land preparation is a must for watermelon cultivation, like every other crop. For this, you may plough and dig the land. However, the selected farm ought to have properly-drained sandy loam soil as watermelon grows properly in such soil type. In addition, you may remove the particles of remaining crops or weeds grown in the fields. After that, you could proceed with soil testing to check soil fertility and use organic manure according to the need.
3. Planting:
In this step, farmers plant the watermelon crop with the help of seed drills attached to the ACE DI 6565 tractor. However, it should be finished at the right time, as timing is important for watermelon cultivation. In most regions of India, planting is finished for the duration of the spring or summer seasons. So, farmers must plant at some point during this time, and they should wait in mind to save in a proper area between plants of about 6-8 feet to facilitate a healthy increase.
4. Irrigation:
Watering watermelons is necessary to improve their health because they require constant moisture. For this, drip irrigation or furrow irrigation are considered nice due to the fact that these irrigation techniques help in saving waterlogging and provide needed moisture in the flowering and fruiting stages.
5. Nutrition Management:
Provide balanced vitamins by fertilization. Utilize natural and chemical composts having an adequate measure of supplements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Supplement with micronutrients as needed, ensuring healthful plant increase and fruit improvement. One can bring organic or synthetic fertilizers to the farm using an ACE FORMA DI 450 tractor attached with a trolley.
6. Pest and Disease Management:
Regular tracking is important to come across pests and diseases. Common problems include aphids, fruit flies, and powdery mould. Implementing pest management practices and the use of organic pesticides when viable can make a difference.
7. Pollination:
Watermelons are usually insect-pollinated. While bees play an important role, manual pollination may be executed by moving pollen from male to female plant life with the use of a brush. Ensure the right pollination for the gold standard fruit set.
8. Training and Pruning:
Training vines and practising pruning helps in higher fruit development. Remove lateral shoots and excess plant life to improve the plant’s energy to produce great results.
9. Harvesting:
Harvest watermelons after they reach the stage. Signs of adulthood consist of dull pores and skin, a hollow sound while tapping, and a dried tendril near the fruit. Overripe fruits may lose sweetness, so timing is important to cultivate the watermelon. Farmers use the ACE tractor while harvesting the fields.
9. Post-Harvest Handling:
Handle harvested watermelons with care to keep them away from harm. Store them in a cool, nicely ventilated-place. Proper packaging is important for transportation to markets to prevent bruising.
10. Marketing and Sales:
Explore local markets and establish connections with shops. Direct sales to clients or imparting to grocery stores are usual practices. Proper advertising techniques can lead to profitability.
11. Challenges and Tips for Success
Be aware of demanding situations like waterborne diseases, extreme weather situations, and market fluctuations. Stay informed about the latest farming strategies and technologies to beautify your yield.
Conclusion:
Watermelon farming in India holds huge potential for farmers looking for a worthwhile and successful agricultural activity. By following these techniques on land preparation, irrigation, nutrient control, pest control, and advertising, farmers can optimize their watermelon cultivation practices and contribute to the growth of this thriving agricultural area.