Response of muskmelon (Cucumis melo var. reticulatus Naud.) to nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization
2005
Elkashif, M.E., University of Gezira Wad Medani (Sudan) , The National Institute for the Promotion of Horticultural Exports | Elamin, O.M., University of Gezira, Wad Medani (Sudan) , Faculty of Agricultural Sciences | Elyas, S.K., University of Gezira, Wad Medani (Sudan) , Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
The area under muskmelon cultivation in Sudan is generally deficient in organic matter and hence N. Nitrogen and P fertilizers are usually applied for muskmelon production in Khartoum and Gezira States at different rates. Nitrogen was found to have a remarkable effect on muskmelon growth, yield and quality of fruits (Bhella and Wilcox, 1986; Hamid, 1994). The best vine growth and darkest leaves of muskmelon were obtained with a pre-plant application of 66 kg N/ha plus 33 kg N/ha applied as a side dressing (Dufault, 1986). The criterion of sex expression is very important in cucurbits because it affects earliness and yield. Studies on the effects of N on sex expression in muskmelon showed that the application of N at the rate of 66 kg/ha resulted in an increase in the number of perfect flowers (Dufault, 1986). Also, pre-transplant application of high rates of N resulted in a higher percentage of female flowers as compared to low N rates (Mc Collum et at., 1987). Hamid (1994) reported that a combination of N and P resulted in a significant increase in the number of female flowers. Muskmelon fruit netting is a criterion required in international markets because it indicates good fruit quality. Pierce (1987) found a positive relationship between N and P rates and netting intensity. He showed that extensively netted fruits had small cavities, high total soluble solids and a strong aroma
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