Watermelon Disease Control Demonstration

Lane, Oklahoma

2007

The objective of this project is to demonstrate to the use of fungicides for controlling foliar diseases in watermelon.  The demonstration will include two different fungicide treatments and two different methods that can be used to decide when to apply fungicides.

Fungicides: 

1. A mixture of Dithane 75DF applied at 2 lbs. per acre and Topsin 70 WP applied at ½ lb. per acre.
2. Bravo Weatherstick applied at 1½ pints per acre.

Application Decision Methods:

1. Apply on a calendar schedule.  We chose a schedule of every two weeks since local weather has been clear and dry.
2. Apply based on the Mesonet Anthracnose Forecaster Model. 

 http://agweather.mesonet.ou.edu/models/watermelon/default.html

For both methods an initial fungicide application will be made when plants began to produce male flowers. 

Due to an abnormally wet summer, watermelon was planting later than planned and was established with transplants in late July. 

For questions or comments contact Jim Shrefler by e-mail or by phone at 580-889-7343

This information is provided for educational purposes.  When using pesticides, always read and follow label directions.  Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service is implied.