The cultivation of watermelon 'Crimson Sweet' under the agro-environmental conditions of the Recôncavo region, Bahia

Abstract

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Schrad.) is one of the most widely produced and consumed fruits in Brazil, standing out for its broad market acceptance and high potential for income generation, particularly within family farming systems. The objective of this study was to characterize the production of the ‘Crimson Sweet’ cultivar under the agro-environmental conditions of the Recôncavo region of Bahia, Brazil, considering fruit growth, yield, and quality parameters. The trial was conducted at the Experimental Farm of the CCAAB/UFRB, in Cruz das Almas (BA), from February to May 2024. Planting was carried out in pits, with both organic and mineral fertilization at establishment, followed by complementary foliar applications, combined with localized irrigation and phytosanitary management. Results indicated flowering at 34 days after planting (DAP) and fruit set at 42 DAP, with continuous fruit growth until 76 DAP. A reduction in the number of fruits per plant was also observed throughout the cycle, possibly influenced by the climatic conditions during the cropping period. Mean values for fruit length, diameter, and weight were 27.64 cm, 23.45 cm, and 7.76 kg, respectively. Estimated yield reached 38,255.0 kg ha⁻¹, with an average soluble solids content of 9.35 ºBrix. Visual and physiological indicators, such as hollow sound when tapped, rind coloration, and peduncle tendril color, confirmed full ripeness at 76 DAP. Therefore, the ‘Crimson Sweet’ cultivar demonstrated good performance under the conditions of the Recôncavo region, producing fruits with competitive commercial standards and representing a viable alternative for productive diversification and strengthening of family farming in the region.