Planting and management of netted melon

1. Planting time

Netted melon can be cultivated in spring and autumn. If greenhouse cultivation is chosen in spring, seedlings can be raised in the greenhouse in mid-to-late February, and transplanted in mid-to-late March. For open-field cultivation in spring, seedlings can be raised in the greenhouse in early to mid-March, and transplanted with mulch film in early to mid-April. If it is cultivated in autumn, seedlings can be raised in late July or early August and transplanted in early September.

2. Seed selection and seedling cultivation

Before sowing the netted melon, select the seeds in advance, soak the seeds in clean water for about 3-4 hours, take them out and soak them in 2% sodium hydroxide aqueous solution, then take out the seeds, clean them, and put them in a warm place to germinate. After the seeds turn white, they can be sown. Prepare peat soil for sowing, water the soil and then sow the seeds, cover with a thin layer of soil, and cover with a shade net to keep moisture and shade. Manage the seedlings well during the seedling stage, block out strong light at noon, and transplant the seedlings when they grow 2-3 leaves.

3. Transplanting and Planting

Prepare the soil for planting by loosening and tilling the soil in advance and applying decomposed organic fertilizer. The land should be prepared to make raised ridges, with a width of about 80 cm and a height of about 30 cm. The ridge surface should be covered with black ground film.

4. Water and Fertilizer Management

Netted melon is not drought-tolerant and is afraid of waterlogging. From the early growth stage to before flowering, the soil should maintain appropriate moisture. During the fruit setting and swelling period, plenty of water and fertilizer can be applied.

5. Pest and disease control

During the growing period of the netted melon, it is necessary to prevent and control diseases and pests. Viral diseases, sudden wilt, powdery mildew, whiteflies, aphids, and Spodoptera litura are prone to occur. Pay attention to scientific use of pesticides and timely prevention and control.