Fruit Cracking in Melon

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is an economically profitable crop in temperate and tropical regions. Melons vary in shape, size, and skin texture; they are classified under different varieties. Fruit cracking is a general problem of melon fruit grown worldwide. This physiological disorder intensively affects the production and marketable value of fruits. Studies revealed that fruit cracking causes a 70% loss in the economy of the melon fruit industry. The cracking becomes more visible when the fruits reach maturity; no single factor is known to prevent it effectively. The severity of fruit cracking depends on the nature of the variety, climate zone, where the variety is grown, fruit growing patterns, and cultural practices. It has also been linked to improper irrigation, environmental factors, and nutritional deficiencies, particularly boron, calcium, zinc, and potassium. Horticultural practices, such as spraying growth promoters, micronutrients, antitranspirant, and regular drip irrigation with mulching, have been recommended to avoid fruit cracking in melon. Although fruit cracking is a significant economic risk, research on its cause and management in melon is limited compared to other fruit crops. Hence, the present chapter summarizes the underlying causes of melon fruit cracking and potential control strategies to reduce melon fruit cracking.