After grafting melon seedlings, proper environmental management is crucial for successful recovery and growth. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure the best results:
1. **Temperature Control**
In the first 1-3 days after grafting, it's essential to maintain strict temperature control. Daytime temperatures should be kept between 23-25°C, while nighttime temperatures should remain at 20-22°C. This helps the grafted plants acclimate and reduces stress. After about 7 days, gradually adjust the temperatures: daytime to 23-24°C and nighttime to 15-18°C. These conditions promote wound healing and help the seedlings resume normal growth once they have fully established.
2. **Humidity Management**
Before grafting, water the seedlings thoroughly to increase both soil and air humidity. For the next 2-3 days, keep the greenhouse sealed to maintain high humidity levels—ideally between 90% and 100%. This environment supports the healing of the graft union. Gradually introduce ventilation over the following days, increasing the time spent ventilating both inside and outside the greenhouse. By day 7, return to regular management practices.
3. **Light Exposure**
To prevent wilting in the early stages, provide shade for the first 3 days after grafting. Use shade nets or cover the plants completely during this period. From day 4 to day 7, slowly begin to lift the shade, allowing limited light exposure. Over the next few days, increase the amount of light the plants receive. By day 10, remove all shading materials and allow full sunlight, ensuring the plants adapt smoothly to normal growing conditions.
4. **Disease Prevention**
Grafted seedlings are more vulnerable to diseases due to their wounds and the humid, warm conditions. During the healing phase, spray the seedlings with a solution of 75% chlorothalonil wettable powder diluted at 600 times. This helps prevent damping-off and root rot, which are common issues during the early stages of grafting.
5. **Root Removal**
Approximately 7 days after grafting, when the wounds have healed, carefully cut off the roots of the scion (the upper part of the plant). This step ensures that the scion and rootstock grow as a single, unified plant. When cutting, make sure the cut is as close to the graft interface as possible to avoid exposing the wound to soil-borne pathogens. Also, removing the scion’s roots prevents the formation of adventitious roots, which could compromise the graft.
6. **Pruning the Rootstock**
After grafting, new lateral shoots may appear on the rootstock. These should be removed promptly to conserve energy and encourage the growth of the grafted plant. Regularly check and pinch off any unwanted shoots to ensure the grafted seedling receives the necessary nutrients and grows strong.
By following these steps, you can significantly improve the survival rate and overall health of your grafted melon seedlings. Proper care during the initial weeks after grafting is key to long-term success.
Spicy Chili Oil,Crispy Chili Oil Spicy,Spicy Rice Sauce Chili,Spicy Chili Oil Sauce
Guizhou Guisanhong Food Co., Ltd , http://www.guisanhong.com