After watermelon plants are in the ground, a preventative fungicide program every 7 to 10 days along with irrigation management will be necessary for disease management.
Florida watermelons
Watermelons planted early in Florida
The calendar may say Feb. 20 but for some watermelon growers in North Florida, it says it is planting time.
Fusarium warning due to cool & wet weather
North Florida watermelon producers should be wary of increased potential for fusarium wilt disease with planting season looming.
Fungicide resistance a concern for watermelon growers
Symptoms begin as circular yellow areas on the leaves. Growth of the fungus appears as the infection progresses and can be observed on the underside of the leaves. “White powder” can be viewed on both surfaces of the leaves and stems as the tissue decays.
Florida Watermelon producers focus on pest and disease management.
Research which focuses on pest and disease management is at the heart of crop sustainability in Florida’s watermelon industry. Two issues that need immediate attention are whiteflies and fusarium wilt in watermelon.
2023 Florida Watermelon Convention
Florida watermelons benefit from UF/IFAS research
Plant disease and water information from University of Florida Extension and researchers helped Florida watermelon farmers grow a bumper crop in 2023. Part of this year’s success came from partnerships between the industry and UF/IFAS research and Extension to provide information on disease management and extended water and nutrient programs, keeping the crops healthy and productive much longer than normal.