Watermelon
Irrigation practices for watermelon, a popular summer fruit crop in Oman.
Season water
500-700 mm
Soil moisture target
70–85%
Recommended irrigation schedule
Adjust slightly based on soil type, local climate, and field observations.
Planting
Immediate irrigation after planting
Establishment
Every 2-3 days
Vegetative Growth
Every 3-5 days
Flowering
Every 2-3 days
Fruit Development
Every 2-3 days
Best practices in the field
- Use drip irrigation for water efficiency and to avoid wetting foliage
- Maintain consistent soil moisture especially during fruit development
- Critical irrigation during flowering and fruit set
- Ensure adequate water during fruit development for good size
- Water in early morning to allow foliage to dry
- Monitor soil moisture at 30-50 cm depth
- Reduce irrigation slightly as fruits approach maturity
- Avoid water stress as it causes poor fruit quality
Common mistakes to avoid
- Water stress during fruit development causing small fruits
- Irregular watering causing fruit cracking
- Overhead irrigation causing fungal diseases
- Insufficient water during flowering affecting fruit set
- Over-irrigation leading to poor fruit quality and splitting
- Watering too late in day keeping foliage wet