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Chapel Hill, NC

I hear alot of talk about lobe count in our melons. I'm just wondering why or if there is any evidence that number of lobes benefits the final size/weight of the melon. How many 4 lobes are over 300lbs vs 5 lobes that are over 300lbs? Anybody ever compiled that information as evidence that lobe count does indeed contribute to the ultimate size of the melon?

2/1/2018 9:21:09 AM

Owensboro, Ky.

Mr. Warren sir, just a guess here as I do not grow melons...more lobes would concentrate growth...i.e. less HH? Just a guess? Looking for 6/7 lobe seeds!!! Peace, Wayne

2/2/2018 1:02:34 AM

Corryton, TN

Don't remember anyone sharing that info if they did. Unfortunately compiling the information from different growers would not be evidence. It might lead to a trend and a hypothesis. In 2011 I planted 4 35 Kent plants. All were very uniform and as near identical care as I can provide. Three set 4 lobed fruit and 1 a 5. The 3 4's finished 205ish and the 5 240ish. Again not proof, but it's why I started promoting higher number lobes. I hope to plant a row of melons in a commercial setup this year with seeds from my 8 lobe producing plant. With a bit of luck I can devise a test that will help us get a more definitive answer. It will most likely require setting multiple fruit on the same plant for as accurate comparison as possible. If my hypothesis of more is better is incorrect FANTASTIC. One less thing to worry about.

2/2/2018 8:14:46 AM