How To Maintain Proper Irrigation And Pest Control In High Tunnel Melon Production

One of the primary advantages to high tunnel production is the ability to more precisely control watering. Photo courtesy of Jett Lewis

One of the primary advantages to high tunnel production is the ability to more precisely control watering.
Photo courtesy of Jett Lewis

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When using high tunnels to produce melons, it is important to make sure you have the right irrigation system in place and are prepared to combat insect pests and disease.

Lewis Jett, Extension specialist at the University of West Virginia, offers some pointers on controlling watering and for which pests to be on the lookout.

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Fine-Tuning Irrigation Practices
One of the primary advantages to high tunnel production is the ability to more precisely control watering. Jett suggests drip micro-irrigation in tunnels that is scheduled using tensiometers or other soil moisture monitoring technology.

“The plants are going to be growing on mulch, so water won’t be evaporating rapidly,” he says. “Growers should apply about an inch and a half of [water] per acre per week.”

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Jett has successfully used medium-flow drip beds with two drip lines per bed, spaced approximately a foot apart.

Making sure that watering is done evenly throughout the growing season is another key component. Jett suggests a minimum of three times a week on average for adequate moisture, depending on your soil type.

Pest And Disease Management

Mesh bags tied to the trellis can be used as slings to support the fruit as they ripen. Photo courtesy of Jett Lewis

Mesh bags tied to the trellis can be used as slings to support the fruit as they ripen.
Photo courtesy of Jett Lewis

Spider mites are one of the main pest challenges for high tunnel melon production. To help keep them at bay, ensure the tunnel doesn’t get too hot and avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.

“Spider mites thrive in hot, dry environments, and the nitrogen creates a lot of laterals and leaves off the vines, which the mites like. Growers should be scouting on the undersides of leaves and near the crown,” Jett says.

Because spider mites tend to accumulate on the lower leaves, pruning lateral leaves may also help keep them off plants.

Thrips and aphids are additional pests you’re bound to encounter inside the tunnels. To keep them away, Jett suggests keeping your perimeter free of weeds and other debris, which the pests tend to aggregate on.

He also recommends scouting with a hand lens once or twice a week to make sure no leaves are necrotic, curling, or discolored.

Most pesticides should be labeled for high tunnel or greenhouse production. Jett emphasizes the importance of checking the commercial production guides in your region to make sure products are registered for use, and that you have the appropriate preharvest intervals.

 

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