Organic soilless cultivation techniques of small fruit watermelon

In recent years, some producers have successfully adapted watermelon cultivation techniques to hydroponic systems. However, challenges such as poor root development and infections in nutrient solutions have hindered the success of this method. Since 1998, the author has experimented with organic soilless cultivation methods. After over three years of trial and refinement, it has been found that this approach is highly effective for producing premium, small-fruited watermelons. I. Cultivation Troughs and Substrate (1) Cultivation Troughs 1. A simple brick-made trough can be constructed based on greenhouse dimensions. Typically, the length should not exceed 20 meters, with a width of 90 cm and a height of 18 cm. The walkway between troughs should be 90 cm wide. The base of the trough is lined with a 0.1 mm thick polyethylene sheet to isolate it from the ground. 2. Hydroponic Tanks Hydroponic systems require precise management, especially when it comes to nutrient control. To simplify this, organic cultivation can be directly implemented using hydroponic tanks. The substrate is filled into the tank, and a drip irrigation system is installed for efficient watering. (B) Cultivation Substrate A mixture of coconut coir and river sand in a 1:1 volume ratio is ideal. The sand size should be between 0.2–0.4 cm. If sea sand is used, it must be thoroughly rinsed with fresh water before use. When mixing the substrate, add 12 kg of commercial chicken manure organic fertilizer per cubic meter (containing 20% organic matter, 8.8% total nitrogen, 3.5% total phosphorus, and 7.2% total potassium). Mix in various trace elements and fill the tanks accordingly. (3) Drip Irrigation System Two parallel drip irrigation lines are placed along each trough. Each line should have a diameter of 15 mm, with emitters spaced 50 cm apart. Each greenhouse should have an independent water supply system and a pressurized pump to ensure even distribution. A filter should also be installed to prevent clogging. II. Watermelon Cultivation Techniques (a) Variety Selection Choose high-quality, small-fruited varieties with good taste, appearance, and high sugar content. Varieties like 'Gold Beauty' and 'Black Beauty' are recommended. (2) Sowing and Seedling Arrangement Sowing time depends on local conditions and climate. In the Pearl River Delta region of Guangdong, sowing can be done in January and September annually. (III) Cultivation and Management 1. Planting When seedlings have 3–4 true leaves, they can be transplanted. Before planting, the substrate should be pre-moistened. Two rows are planted per trough, with a row spacing of 70 cm and a plant spacing of 50 cm. Each plant should be placed near a drip emitter to avoid root damage during the rooting process. 2. Fertilization and Water Management Seven days after planting, apply 0.1 kg of urea and compound fertilizer per cubic meter. Twenty days later, add 4 kg of peanut bran per cubic meter (containing 6.32% nitrogen, 1.17% phosphorus, and 1.34% potassium). This organic mix usually meets the watermelon's nutritional needs throughout the growing season. Additional quick-release fertilizers may be applied if necessary. Organic fertilizers already contain essential micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, molybdenum, and boron, so no extra supplementation is needed. If the fruits are large, apply 0.3 kg of potassium sulfate compound fertilizer per cubic meter. Combine this with foliar sprays of 0.1% urea and 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate every five days for three times. Water management should be adjusted based on plant growth and weather. During early stages, water every 2–3 days. When plants grow vigorously and temperatures rise, water daily, especially during fruit enlargement. Reduce watering before harvest to maintain sugar levels and fruit quality. 3. Vine Training and Pruning Once the vines reach about 10 nodes, use nylon or plastic ropes to support the main vine. Pollinate female flowers on the main vine between the 16th and 25th nodes. For pruning, a double-vine method is recommended. When the plant reaches 30 cm, leave the main vine and one side vine, removing all others. The main vine should bear one fruit, while the side vine serves as a vegetative branch. Leave 4–5 leaves above the node for picking.

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