Diseases affecting melon and watermelon. Melon and watermelon are highly demanded by international fruit consumers. Andalusia is one of the main exporters, since more than half of its production is destined to be consumed outside our borders.
Therefore, it is important for our growers to recognize which are the diseases affecting melon and watermelon so that, at the slightest symptom, they are able to deal with them. Do you want to know what they are and how to discover them? We talk about them below.
Main diseases affecting melons and watermelons
Powdery mildew
Powdery mildew is one of the most common diseases affecting melon and watermelon. To find out if it is attacking our crop, it is important to notice if we observe a white veil covering it. In addition, you have to observe if the leaves have begun to dry out, as this unpleasant covering will cause the loss of its photosynthesis capacity.
If left to run its course, it will begin to affect the stems and petioles as well. When it reaches the fruits, the attack will be very strong, so it is essential that you act before this uncomfortable situation occurs. Ask us about the products we have for this case, without obligation.
Mites
Mites are one of the main causes of diseases for melon and watermelon crops, therefore, we must be attentive to the slightest symptom that they are attacking them. There is a great variety of them, but we highlight the white mite and the red spider mite.
The white spider mite feeds on the youngest leaves and sucks the contents of the plant cells, causing brown spots and curling, while on the fruit, it will cause corkiness and deformation of the fruit, causing openings. On the other hand, the spider mite will also suck the contents of the cells on the underside of the leaves, causing yellow marks and a decrease in photosynthesis.
Aphids
This pathogen is very dangerous for crops. Depending on the species that is attacking it, it will produce diseases that affect melon and watermelon. One of the most negative effects is the extraction of nutrients, since the leaves will be deformed until they wither.
In addition, many of them absorb these nutrients and create a honeydew that sticks to the fruit and will cause it to grow black, affecting photosynthesis and making the fruit unmarketable. Others create toxic substances in their saliva or transmit a number of viruses, so it is important to deal with the problem quickly.
What products do I use to prevent diseases in my melon and watermelon crops?
In our catalog you will find a series of effective products to kill diseases affecting melon and watermelon:
- Azufega 80 P – Fungicide and acaricide consisting of 80% sulfur powder for dusting.
- Oxidizing Sulfur – A product containing 80% sulfur and 0.5% potassium permanganate in powder form for dusting.
- RioSul 80 – Acaricide fungicide with 80% sulfur. Due to the “PTF” technology, it uses the humidity of the plant to increase its adherence and persistence.
- RioSul oxidant – Product formulated with 80% sulfur and 0.5% potassium permanganate to enhance its fungicidal action. Thanks to the “PTF” technology, the homogeneity of its components is ideal for the product to achieve great success.
- Sultrín 40-0.5 – An insecticide, fungicide, and acaricide formulated as a 40% sulfur and 0.05% cypermethrin powder for dusting, which also contains 40% sunscreen.
If you have doubts about which product you need according to your situation, we recommend you to contact us and we will advise you on how to prevent melon and watermelon diseases from attacking your crop!
Images: Freepik
