Characteristics and Geographic Variation of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Production in Oklahoma from a Statewide Survey

ABSTRACT There is little information on the types and frequencies of cultural practices in watermelon production that are commonly used. To better understand opportunities and pitfalls in watermelon production, and to provide direction for extension personnel, we undertook a survey of characteristics of watermelon production in Oklahoma. This survey included 102 fields and 1,260 ha in 22 counties–up to 30% of the estimated watermelon area in 1998 and 1999. Triploid cultivars, plastic mulch, beehives, raised beds, and 2-row planting was found in < 30% of fields. Transplants, windbreaks, hoeing, and irrigation were used in < 55% of fields. Cultivation, fertilization, and crop rotation occurred in > 85% of fields. Overall, < 5% of growers used low management intensity of open-pollinated cultivars, direct seeding, no cultivation, and no fertilization. Only < 1% growers used high management intensity of diploid or triploid hybrid cultivars, plastic mulch, raised beds, pollination management, transplanting, and irrigation, in addition to cultivation, fertilization, and crop rotation. High intensity management was frequently used in the southwestern district, compared to the northeastern and southeastern districts. Given techniques available, management intensity could be increased in Oklahoma.