Hollow watermelons are a common issue, whether it's regular or high-quality varieties. But why does this happen? There are several main reasons behind the hollow phenomenon.
First, low temperatures during fruit set can be a major cause. Watermelons require temperatures between 25°C and 30°C for proper flowering and fruit development. If the temperature drops below 20°C, cell division in the fruit slows down. This means the fruit doesn't develop enough cells to support its growth later on. As the fruit grows, the outer skin expands quickly, but the inside remains empty, leading to a hollow center.
Second, unfavorable weather conditions like heavy rain and lack of sunlight can also lead to hollow fruits. During fruit development, watermelons need plenty of nutrients and sunlight for photosynthesis. When there's too much rain and not enough sun, the plant can't produce enough energy. This affects both cell division and expansion, resulting in underdeveloped flesh and hollow areas. Additionally, overuse of nitrogen fertilizer, excessive watering, or poor pruning can cause the plant to grow leggy, which further limits nutrient availability for the fruit.
Third, improper fruit positioning can contribute to the problem. The first female flower often produces small, weak fruits, especially if pollination is poor or the plant has limited leaf area. These fruits may not develop properly, and when the temperature rises, the rind expands rapidly while the internal tissue can't keep up, causing a hollow center.
Fourth, insufficient water during fruit development is another factor. Watermelon needs consistent moisture to allow cells to expand properly. If the fruit experiences severe drought during this period, the cells don’t grow as they should, leading to an empty space inside.
Fifth, harvesting too late can also cause hollowing. Once the watermelon matures, nutrients and water start to move out of the fruit. If it’s not harvested on time, the fruit loses moisture and nutrients, leading to a hollow interior. This is especially common in fast-growing varieties.
In conclusion, the causes of hollow watermelons are complex and involve factors like temperature, light, fruit placement, fertilization, irrigation, and harvesting timing. To prevent this, growers should implement proper cultivation practices, such as timely pruning, balanced fertilization, and adequate irrigation. For plants that have already produced hollow fruits, removing the affected ones and applying compound fertilizer can help promote new growth and better fruit set. It's also important to remove the first few fruits and let the third or fourth ones develop to reduce the risk of hollowing. After fruiting, ensure proper watering to avoid dehydration and avoid using growth hormones unnecessarily. With these measures, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of hollow watermelons and improve overall yield and quality.
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