Response of 14 cultivars of melon (Cucumis melo L.) to Clethodim

With the objective of evaluating the sensitivity of various cultivars of melon to Clethodim herbicide during December 2003 to June 2004, six experiments were conducted in greenhouse conditions in EEFBM. The cultivars evaluated were cantaloupe (cv. Hymark, Mystic Eastern, Western and Torrione Laser) honey dew (cv. Orange Flesh, Honey Brew and Tan Dew), dorado (cv. Golden Prince and Golden Nesta), toad skin (cv. Pinonet and Sancho); Tendral (cv. Green Late) and Gali (cv. Solar King). Each cultivar was evaluated at 36, 48, 60, 72 and 84 clethodim g / ha; a control treatment without herbicide was included. We found that a percentage of clethodim caused damage below 20% (considered minor) in all melon cultivars with a slight increase with increasing doses. Phytotoxicity symptoms consisted of chlorosis on the edge of the leaf blades, corrugated blades and leaf buds. Although there was no significant interaction between cultivars by clethodim dose, the late cultivars Nesta and Green seemed the least affected by this herbicide, while the cantaloupe cultivars were slightly more susceptible. The cultivars were recovered two weeks after application. Other variables such as number of leaves and guides, leaf area, biomass of stems and leaves were not affected by the clethodim. Under the conditions of this evaluation and from the viewpoint of selectivity, it is suggested that use of clethodim in doses ranging from 36 to 84 g ai / ha in the melon cultivars tested is appropriate.