Watermelon diseases respond to weather conditions consistent with heavy moisture which was the case in Georgia recently. Tissue samples from fields are being analysed for Gummy stem blight and Fusarium. Disease management is going to be imperative.
Gummy stem blight
Florida watermelons face disease threats
Recent excessive rains in North Florida have impacted the region’s watermelon crop. Growers could soon face the potential buildup of diseases. Downy mildew, Powdery mildew, and Gummy stem blight have been reported in the last few weeks.
Gummy Stem Blight and Powdery Mildew Strategies
Gummy stem blight has been observed in Florida. This is the time to be on the lookout for both gummy stem blight and powdery mildew and to think about upcoming disease management strategies.
South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline | March 2024
Anthracnose has been reported in watermelon plants submitted to Southwest Florida Research & Education Center.
Potential for Florida Melon Disease Buildup
Persistent rains in the North Florida region amid the current El Niño weather pattern is a potential concern for the region’s watermelon producers.
CucCAP scientists study pathogen resistances to watermelon fungicides
Watermelon is affected several pathogens and pests that are frequently controlled by SDHI compounds. Scientists from North Carolina State University compared the sensitivity of the different pathogens to various SDHIs.
South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline | Oct. 18, 2023
In Central Florida, reports indicate incidence of Cucurbit downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis) is increasing and Cucurbit leaf crumple virus (CuLCrV) incidence is very low.
In Southwest Florida, CuLCrV, Squash Vein Yellowing Virus and Cucurbit Yellow Stunting Disorder Virus were diagnosed. Gummy stem blight was reported on watermelons in older watermelon fields.
In Southwest Florida, Very low infestation levels of Cucurbit Downy Mildew were reported by field scouts.
South Florida pest and disease hotline | September 2023
Virus, whitefly, Gummy Stem Blight, Pythium, Choanephora, and other pest reports from University of Florida
