【Objective】An grafting experiment was conducted with the tetraploid watermelon varieties, viz., 402,403 and their cross combinations in order to explore the possibilities of Fusarium wilt control in continuous cropping system of tetraploid watermelon in Guangxi. 【Method】The local calabash was used as rootstock and watermelon varieties 402 and 403, and their cross combinations (403×B15, 403×JL and 402×JL) were used as scion. Graft survival rates were recorded at 10th day after grafting, and the early maturity, resistance to Fusarium wilt disease, yield and fruit quality have been observed. 【Result】The five grafted combinations showed good compatibilities and their graft survival rates ranged from 97.14-100.00%. The date of the second female flowers blooming in grafted watermelon plants was delayed by 2-3 days compared to original ones. However, the node of the second female flower raised by 2 nodes. All the five grafted combinations showed high-resistance to Fusarium wilt disease. Their average single fruit weight and yield were higher than those of original ones and the highest increase in yield was observed in grafted watermelon combination of 402×JL. No significant differences in soluble solid content, pulp color, fruit texture and flavor were observed between grafted watermelon plants and original ones. 【Conclusion】The results revealed the resistance to Fusarium wilt disease in grafted plants using local calabash as rootstock and tetraploid watermelon (402 and 403) and their cross combinations (403×B15, 403×JL and 402×JL) as scion. The grafting technology was found suitable for promotion and application in commercial production of watermelons.
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