Yield and quality of triploid watermelon cultivars and experimental hybrids grown in Mississippi

Evaluations of 21 entries (commercial cultivars and breeders' experimental hybrids) of triploid watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) were conducted in northern and central Mississippi during 2000 and 2001. The purpose of this research was to identify high-yielding, medium-sized triploid cultivars with good horticultural characteristics and consumer qualities for commercial production in Mississippi. Most entries were similar to 'Tri-X 313' and had red flesh, oval shape, and a mottle stripe rind pattern. SXW 5052, 'Triple Crown,' 'Crimson Trio,' 'SeedWay 4502,' and 'Millionaire' produced the highest total marketable yields; however, SXW 5052 is no longer available. 'Crimson Trio' produced slightly smaller-sized melons compared to other entries and 'SeedWay 4502' produced melons with relatively low soluble solids concentration. Based on total marketable yield, average size of melons, soluble solids concentration, and lack of undesirable characteristics such as hollowheart, black and colored seed, and rind necrosis, 'Triple Crown,''Millionaire,' 'Cooperstown,' 'Summer Sweet 5244,' and 'Crimson Trio' can be recommended as mid- to late-maturing cultivars for commercial production in Mississippi. Based on early marketable yield, and using the same criteria listed above, 'Tri-X 313' and 'Tri-X Carousel' can be recommended as early-maturing cultivars for commercial production in Mississippi. 'Tri-X 313' exhibited only one undesirable trait, producing a relatively high number of black and colored seeds. 'Diamond' had high early and total yields, as well as high soluble solids concentration, but it should be recommended only on a trial basis to determine its potential susceptibility to hollowheart.