In the autumn, greenhouse melon cultivation shares similarities with spring greenhouse farming but also presents distinct differences. The climatic conditions during autumn melon growth are characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall in the early stages, followed by a drier period in the middle and late phases. However, temperatures tend to drop later on, which is contrary to the ideal temperature trend for melons, which typically requires a gradual increase throughout the growing season. As a result, the cultivation practices differ significantly.
When selecting varieties for autumn planting, it's crucial to prioritize early-maturing types that can adapt well to the fluctuating weather conditions. In the initial phase of cultivation, timely planting is essential, along with strict control over high temperature and humidity to prevent seedling overgrowth and reduce the risk of pests and diseases. During the mid to late stages, regular management becomes important, while in the final phase, increasing the temperature helps ensure proper fruit development.
Due to the higher risk of pests and diseases caused by high temperatures and dryness, it's recommended to use shade nets, insect-proof nets, and other protective equipment within the greenhouse. These measures help create a more controlled and stable environment, reducing the likelihood of infestations and disease outbreaks.
(1) Suitable Sowing and Management
Autumn melon cultivation can be done either directly sown or through seedlings. To better manage the process, seedlings are often raised in a controlled environment. The seedbed should be located in a greenhouse with a removable top cover (which allows ventilation and rain protection), or a new nursery structure with a transparent roof and side vents. Sowing at the right time is critical—sowing too early risks damage from high temperatures and storms, while sowing too late may delay fruit ripening. The optimal sowing time is usually around early July. The germination and sowing techniques are similar to those used in spring, but due to the high temperature, seeds absorb water quickly, so the germination process needs to be managed carefully to avoid excessive sprouting.
Seedbed management involves maintaining a cool and shaded environment to prevent viral infections caused by high temperatures. Shade nets should be tightly placed to reduce aphid activity and lower the temperature. Regular weeding and crop maintenance are also necessary. Watering must be strictly controlled to avoid overwatering, as the summer heat causes rapid evaporation. A small amount of water should be applied when needed, and foliar feeding can help promote healthy seedling growth. Seedlings should be exposed to direct sunlight gradually to prevent excessive elongation. When it rains, the greenhouse cover should be closed to protect the seedlings.
The age of the seedlings should not be too advanced. Seedlings with one leaf and one heart can be transplanted after 10 to 15 days, ensuring they are strong and healthy.
(2) Transplanting
The requirements for greenhouses, fertilizers, and soil preparation in autumn are largely similar to spring, but there are some key differences. First, the high temperature and dryness in autumn lead to increased pest activity. In addition to the standard greenhouse film, a sunshade net should be installed on the roof, and an insect-proof net should surround the structure to create a cooler, ventilated, and enclosed environment. This setup significantly reduces pest infestations and disease occurrence.
When transplanting, seedlings should have only one leaf and one heart, not more than two leaves. Due to the reduced growth potential in autumn compared to spring, the plant spacing can be slightly reduced. For example, if Jintian No. 1 is planted at 40 cm in spring, it can be spaced at 35 cm in autumn.
(3) Greenhouse Management
Temperature control is vital in the greenhouse. Before planting, the temperature should be maintained around 30°C. During the day, it should not exceed 35°C, and at night, it should remain below 20°C. The ideal temperature during fruit setting is between 22°C and 26°C. After fruit set, the temperature can be raised to about 30°C, depending on the melon’s growth requirements and weather conditions. In the middle and late stages, the shade net can be removed, and the greenhouse film can be adjusted to regulate temperature effectively.
During the hot summer and autumn months, the combination of shade nets and good irrigation and fertilization can lead to excessive vine growth without fruit production. Therefore, timely pruning is essential to control the plants and encourage early fruit setting. Pruning should be done less aggressively than in spring and focused on promoting fruit development.
(4) Pest Control
Common diseases in autumn include leaf blight, bacterial wilt, and downy mildew. Insect pests such as whiteflies, aphids, and leafminers are also prevalent. Using shade nets and insect-proof nets can help mitigate these issues. Proper ventilation and air drying inside the greenhouse are important to reduce humidity and prevent disease spread. Excess vines and non-functional old leaves at the base should be removed. It is essential to follow the principle of pruning on sunny days and avoiding it on cloudy or wet days, as wounds from pruning can lead to disease outbreaks.
Source: Xinjiang Linguo Net
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