The 8424 watermelon, a hybrid variety with early maturity, distinct striping, thin rind, and fine, crisp, pink flesh, is highly favored for its quality. It is widely cultivated by farmers. Let's explore the management techniques for cultivating 8424 watermelons in greenhouses.
1. Site Selection and Land Preparation
When planting 8424 watermelons, choose high-lying areas with deep, well-drained sandy soil convenient for irrigation. Before planting, clear the field of weeds, then plow to a depth of about 30 centimeters. After the soil reaches the right moisture level, cultivate it finely, and plan drainage trenches according to the size of the greenhouse. When the soil moisture is appropriate, cover with plastic film and then plant the seedlings.
2. Seed Sowing and Seedling Raising
For 8424 watermelon cultivation, use electric heating for seedling raising to control the temperature effectively. The germination temperature should be maintained between 28-30 degrees Celsius. Three to four days after sowing, the soil temperature should be kept between 25-30 degrees Celsius. After seedlings emerge, suspend heating. After some seedlings emerge, maintain daytime temperatures between 20-25 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures between 15-20 degrees Celsius.
3. Transplanting
When the seedlings have 3-4 leaves and are about 30 days old, transplant them on sunny days, preferably between 9:00-16:00 when the temperature is around 10 degrees Celsius. After transplanting, be cautious not to overwater, as it can cause root rot.
4. Irrigation and Fertilization Management
Effective irrigation and fertilization management are crucial for 8424 watermelon cultivation in greenhouses. Apply the principle of little and often for fertilization according to the growth stage of the watermelon plants. Additionally, adjust water and fertilizer based on the growth conditions of the plants.
5. Temperature Management
Adjust the temperature according to the conditions inside and outside the greenhouse during 8424 watermelon cultivation. In the early stages, the temperature should reach 30-35 degrees Celsius. Once the plants are established, daytime temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius are ideal.
Above are the management techniques for cultivating 8424 watermelons in greenhouses. With proper management, the yield can reach around 3000-4000 kilograms per mu, with good fruit setting, making it highly favored by many growers.
