Watermelon farming can be a very profitable business. Succeeding in the game of producing this juicy fruit, however, means getting the basics right and understanding the best techniques that work for your farming operation.
On this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, agronomist and farmer Leshalagae Mojapelo shares the basics on how to get started, tips to deal with pests, and so much more.
According to Mojapelo, watermelons can be grown in almost any soil type. However, sandy soils are preferred.
“The best way to go into farming is by starting with doing a soil analysis. After doing soil analysis the results will come and will give you an idea of what kind of soil you are dealing with.”
He says a soil analysis assists in determining the type and quantity of fertiliser to apply on a particular soil.
Mojapelo explains in the episode why farmers need to pay close attention to their soil before planting watermelons, and why growing watermelons does not need a considerable amount of attention or water.
Another thing is crop rotation, which farmers should take not of. He unpacks why this is important when it comes to protecting the soil against pests and diseases.
Watermelon is considered one of the most widely-grown fruits in sub-tropical and tropical regions across the world. In South Africa, it is grown in Limpopo, North West, Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape.
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ALSO READ: Watermelon: Some tips to get started
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