Role of Boron in Melon Production
Boron is important in improving calcium mobility and the transport of sugars and plant growth regulators.
It plays a key role in flower pollination, fruit formation and in maintaining the integrity of the fruit skin.
Boron effect on flowering and fruit set
Boron has a key role to play in flower pollination and fruit formation (trials in Italy).
Boron and fruit quality
Boron helps to maintain the integrity of the fruit skin. Where supplies of boron are not limiting, skin is more elastic, thereby minimizing cracking and improving netting and storability (cv. Galia - Muskmelon, South Africa).
Boron and calcium redistribution
Boron also works together with calcium, improving uptake of calcium into the fruit. It greatly enhances the uptake of calcium in the blossom end of the fruit, minimizing BER and glassiness (cv. Galia - Muskmelon, South Africa).
Boron effect at growth stages
| Stage | Boron effect |
| Pre-Planting | Ensure good shoot growth |
| Vegetative Growth | Ensure good flowering and fruit set |
| Flowering | Maximize flower set, development and fruiting |
| Fruit Set | Ensure good skin finish and to aid calcium mobility |
| Fruit Fill | Ensure even ripening and good calcium supply to the fruit |
See more on Melon Growth Stages.
General guidelines for Boron application
Boron has a key role to play in flower pollination and fruit formation. And, because melon flowers are only viable for a short period, it is important that supplies are not limiting during pollination.
Boron deficiencies in melon
Young leaves are smaller than normal and curl backwards. Leaves become discolored with grayish-brown mottles. Stems can crack due to the low cell strength. Plants are stunted or dwarfed as the internodes are shortened. Growing points die back. Flowering and fruit set is poor. Fruits are distorted with a poor skin finish. Hollow heart is more common. Deficiencies usually occur when soil moisture contents are too high, or under conditions of high pH.
