The Almerian manufacturer of liquid manure and agricultural nutrients, Nutrientes Alvi, analysed the possible incidents melon and watermelon growers may have to face until the end of the spring campaign. While all eyes are on the New Delhi virus due to its damaging effects on cucurbit crops, like courgettes, Alvi reminded that this virus is not the only threat.
Nutrientes Alvi insisted on the fact that the mild temperatures and high relative humidity percentage, of around 80%, could favour the appearance of diseases such as mycosphaerella, botrytis, mildew and oidium in melons and watermelons.
Agronomist Pedro Sánchez assured that "unstable weather is expected for the month of April and this could be stress inducing to the plants, making them more vulnerable to pests and diseases." That was the case during the 2013 campaign, when April was the period with the greatest presence of white flies in melon and watermelon plantations, of around 10%.
The spring harvest is taking place at the same time as that of peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes; and thus the company recommends keeping an eye on diseases that may affect these crops, without forgetting white flies, which are the carriers of the New Delhi. Even though their presence in melons is smaller, of around 5% according to the Alert and Phytosanitary Information Network (RAIF), growers should remain vigilant.
Source: fhalmeria.com