Abstract:

In order to screen out new varieties of thick-peel netted melon suitable for planting in Jiangsu Province, 14 higher melon varieties were introduced, as well as two self-selected varieties. The growth period, fruit quality and yield were investigated in this study. The results showed that the difference in the whole growth period of various varieties was relatively small, the whole growth period of Suqian 5 and Huamicui was the shortest with 140 d. The fruit development days of Suqian 5, Yuwangtian 616, and Suxiangmi were relatively short, ranging from 42 to 43 days. In terms of fruit quality, centre sugar contents of Sutian 4, Zhongtian 12, 20109, Shuaiguo 580, Suqian 5, Zhongtian 65 and Dumi 5 were higher than 17.00%, showing excellent performance. In terms of yield, Yuwangtian 616 had a maximum single fruit weight of 2.30 kg and the highest 667 m² yield, followed by 21187, Sutian 4, Zhongtian 65, Suxiangmi, Dumi 5, with a single fruit weight of 1.55-2.06 kg and a higher yield as well. In a comprehensive comparison, nine varieties of Yuwangtian 616, 21187, Sutian 4, Dumi 5, Zhongtian 65, Zhongtian 12, Suxiangmi, Suqian 4, and Shuaiguo 580 were excellent in terms of fruit quality and yield, and were suitable for planting in Jiangsu Province.

Key words: thick-peel netted melon, variety, screening