A review of production systems on watermelon quality 1

Cultural practices have been reported to affect quality and phytonutrient content of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai). Knowing which cultivars perform well under various technologies and production systems, and knowing how these systems affect quality and phytonutrient content is imperative to ensure high quality fruit. Organic production and grafting are two cultural practices that are increasing among watermelon producers. Each of these technologies have the potential to interact with cultivars to influence watermelon quality. This review discusses the effects organic culture, input level, and grafting have on watermelon fruit quality. ORGANIC CULTURE Many consumers consider organically produced fruits and vegetables to be healthier and safer than conventionally grown fruit. Because of this, consumers are often willing to pay more for organically grown crops (Whole Foods Market® 2005). Worthington (2001) reported that organic culture of some fruits and vegetables can increase vitamin C, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and other nutritionally significant minerals with a reduction in nitrates and heavy metals content. However, a literature review which compared organically and conventionally grown foods reported no consistent differences in β-carotene between organic and conventional treatments in 27 published studies and no clear trend in total sugar content in 17 publications (Woese et al. 1997). One challenge in converting to organic production is identifying cultivars that will respond well under the different production systems conditions (e.g., reduced chemical inputs for disease, insect, and weed control). Additionally, effects on phytochemical content are important to address in gauging the overall impact of organic production. Knowing which cultivars perform best under various production systems, and analyzing how these systems affect quality, yield, and phytonutrient content will help maintain consistent high yielding, high quality organically grown watermelon.