fumigation, delayed thinning and use of plant resistant varieties such as Charleston Gray,

Crimson Sweet, Dixielee, Jubilee, Sugarlee, and Sweet Princess. Even in resistant varieties,

infestation of the disease can still occur. It is also suggested to avoid old land that has been

planted with watermelon or to have known infestation of fusarium.

 There are no chemicals listed for management of fusarium wilt. However, fumigant

chemicals such as Vapam or Telone C-17 may aid in the control of the soilborne disease.


Nematodes

 Methyl bromide is used to control several nematodes that pose a threat to watermelon

production, including sting and root knot nematode. However, losses as a result of root knot

are not that common. This may be because plantings usually occur on acreages that have a long

rotation into pasture.

 Cultural practices used to control nematodes include crop rotation which can.be used to

decrease populations of root knot nematodes in a given location. For example, corn, sorghum,

bahia grass, bermuda grass and pangola digit grass have been identified in reducing populations

of nematodes. It is also important to ensure complete removal or breakdown of the infested

crop. Cultivation can remove plants that harbor nematodes. Use of plants that are nematode

free and healthy is important in the battle with nematodes.

 There are several non-fumigant and fumigant chemicals that are used for control of

nematodes including Vydate L, a non-fumigant, and Telone I or Telone C-17, a fumigant

chemical (for rate and application method, refer to pp. 96-97 of the Florida Nematode Control

Guide, 1993).