Performance of Galia-type melons grafted on to Cucurbita rootstock in Monosporascus cannonballus-infested and non-infested soils

Galia-type melons grafted on to the Cucurbita rootstock 'TZ 148' and non-grafted controls were evaluated for vegetative development under greenhouse conditions. In general, the development of grafted and non-grafted plants was similar within a cultivar. The horticultural and pathological performances of the Galia-type melons 'Carrera', 'NUN-5554', '6003' and 'Arava' were evaluated in experiments conducted in non-infested and Monosporascus-infested soils. In non-infested soil, grafted and non-grafted 'Carrera', 'NUN-5554' and 'Arava' had the same yields. The yield of grafted '6003' was significantly higher than that of its non-grafted control. Responses of grafted and non-grafted Galia-type melons to Monosporascus cannonballus were evaluated and compared in the spring and autumn growing seasons. Significant differences in disease incidence were found among cultivars, between grafted and non-grafted plants, and between growing seasons. Disease reduction and the beneficial effect of grafting on yield were more pronounced in the spring. The results indicate that Galia-type melons can be grafted successfully, but the cultivation of the grafted plants should be adapted to each growing area and season.