The period from the swelling of watermelon seeds to the emergence of seedlings with two cotyledons and the appearance of the first true leaf is called the germination period, during which management is crucial. Below, we will introduce the management methods during the watermelon germination period.
Management Methods During Watermelon Germination Period
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Water Absorption Stage: The water absorption stage refers to the phase when dry seeds absorb water and swell. This stage usually takes about 12 hours. During this period, the temperature should be controlled at 15 to 20°C, providing sufficient water and oxygen to the seeds. Avoid artificially increasing the temperature of the water used for soaking the seeds, as excessively high water temperature can reduce seed tolerance and lead to weak seedlings due to rapid growth after germination.
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Germination Stage: As the name suggests, the germination stage refers to the phase when seeds swell and sprout embryos. During this stage, the seeds undergo 12 to 48 hours of darkness, and the temperature should be maintained at 28 to 32°C, as seeds are more likely to germinate in warm environments.
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Rooting Stage: After germination, seeds gradually develop different lateral roots. To promote lateral root growth, the temperature can be controlled at 20 to 25°C. When the air humidity is relatively low, misting can be done to increase humidity and maintain moderate moisture in the soil. Ensure the soil remains moist to facilitate good seedling growth after root emergence, and keep the soil loose to ensure adequate oxygen.
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Peeling Stage: After developing lateral roots, seeds enter the peeling stage. During this stage, the temperature can be maintained at 25°C. When the air humidity is relatively high, ventilation can be performed to reduce humidity and maintain moderate moisture in the soil, keeping it loose and moist with sufficient oxygen.
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Head Bud Stage: The head bud stage refers to the period after seed peeling when the cotyledons emerge from the soil. During this stage, the temperature should be controlled between 18 and 28°C. Watering should be done when the soil surface is dry to maintain loose, moist soil with sufficient oxygen.
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Straight Neck Stage: The straight neck stage refers to the period from cotyledon emergence to unfolding. During this stage, it's essential to open the covering film for ventilation in the morning or afternoon, maintaining relatively low humidity and controlling the temperature at 20 to 25°C. This prevents seedlings from becoming leggy.
Above are the management methods during the watermelon germination period, which can be divided into the water absorption stage, germination stage, rooting stage, peeling stage, head bud stage, and straight neck stage. Planters should implement these management practices effectively.
