The importance of traditional practices in the melon production chain

Description

The need to increase and improve on the melon production in the farming system, human diets and health, diversify its uses in industries and other areas cannot be over-emphasized. The production of melon is constrained by low yield and little knowledge about its nutritive value. Melon is one of the most economically important vegetable crops worldwide and is grown in both temperate and tropical regions (Paris, 2001; Bisognin, 2002; Sanjur et al., 2002). The three important and most common cucurbits are Melons (Citrillus colocynthis L.), Watermelons (Citrullus vulgaris L.) and Cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L.). Cucurbits are found throughout the tropics and subtropics of Africa, southeastern Asia, and the Americas. Some are adapted to humid conditions and others are found in arid areas (Whitaker and Davis, 1962; Robinson and Decker-Walters, 1997).