Environmental Stresses

Low temperatures [10-17°C (50-64°F)] can cause stunting and short, misshapen fruit in all cucurbits. Watermelon and cantaloupe are particularly sensitive to low temperatures. High temperatures may cause cucurbits to wilt temporarily and persistently high temperatures may cause marginal leaf necrosis. Drought can cause wilting or stunting of plants, and misshapen fruit. Excessive soil moisture may cause anaerobic conditions in the root zone, resulting in root injury, poor nutrient uptake by roots, leaf chlorosis, reduced plant growth and wilting.

Excessive soil moisture is often problematic in poorly drained fields, low lying areas or soils with high clay content. Drought injury is more common in light sandy soils of low moisture-retention capacity.

Grade fields to eliminate low lying areas. Deep plow and incorporate organic matter to improve drainage in clay soils. Incorporating organic matter also helps to improve moisture retention in light, sandy soils. Monitor crop water use to schedule irrigations effectively. Ensure that protected culture structures are equipped or designed to ensure the best airflow to prevent excessive temperatures or moisture.