The sweet and delicious melon has long been a beloved traditional fruit in both urban and rural areas of our country. Known for its thick skin, it is not only a high-quality fruit enjoyed after meals but also a popular choice in international markets. With the continuous growth of the economy and rising living standards, the demand for thick-skinned melons has increased significantly, leading to rapid development in production and expanded planting areas. This article introduces the greenhouse cultivation techniques for the "West Bilotto" variety of thick-skinned muskmelon in Shanghai and surrounding regions.
First, land selection is crucial. To avoid diseases such as blight caused by continuous cropping, it's important to rotate crops. Avoid planting melons after cucumbers or other melon crops. A rotation period of 6–8 years for dryland and 2–4 years for paddy fields helps prevent soil-borne diseases. Choose deep, well-drained, organic-rich paddy soil for optimal growth.
Next, prepare the soil thoroughly. Deep plowing to a depth of 25–30 cm improves soil structure, increases aeration, and promotes root development. Apply full basal fertilizer before planting, including rotted farmyard manure, cake fertilizer, superphosphate, and compound fertilizer. Soil preparation involves creating raised beds that are 6 meters wide, 3 meters long, and 0.2–0.25 meters high.
For planting seedlings, sowing typically occurs between mid-January and early February when temperatures stabilize above 12°C. Seeds should be soaked in warm water (55–60°C) for 3–4 hours to disinfect and promote germination. After soaking, seeds are wrapped in moist cloth and kept at 28–30°C until they sprout. Seedlings should be transplanted when they have 3–4 leaves, ensuring careful handling to avoid damage.
In the nursery, electric heating lines can be used to maintain optimal soil temperature, especially during cold periods. Proper wiring and insulation help prevent uneven growth. Seedbed management focuses on temperature control, ventilation, and disease prevention using fungicides like thiophanate-methyl.
Once seedlings are strong, they are transplanted into the field with proper spacing (550–600 plants per mu). Greenhouses are used to provide insulation and support growth. Temperature, ventilation, and moisture levels must be carefully managed throughout the growing season.
Pruning, pollination, and thinning are essential for quality fruit production. Manual pollination is recommended over chemical treatments. Thinning fruits ensures better size and marketability. Pest control is vital, using appropriate pesticides to manage diseases like anthracnose and aphids.
Harvesting occurs about 40 days after flowering when the melon turns white and translucent. Harvest in the morning to reduce moisture and avoid damage. Store melons in cool, dry places and use soft paper in transport boxes to prevent bruising. These practices ensure high-quality, marketable produce from greenhouse cultivation.
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