Spain: Melon pollination improves with flower plantations close to the crop

Fresh Melon (Muskmelon)

Spain

Published Oct 23, 2020

Tridge summary

The presence of pollinators in the melon crop can improve with the planting of flowers near said crop, according to a study carried out by researchers from the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM). The experts, in collaboration with the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) and the National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology (INIA), have identified the most suitable floral species to use as margins in melon cultivation.

Original content

For two years, the team has evaluated the role that different herbaceous species planted near the crop play in melon pollination, according to a statement. After analyzing the visits of pollinating insects both to the margin and to the melon, as well as the yield and quality of the crop, the researchers identified coriander, dandelion, borage and marigold as the best species as flower margins. However, the study authors have indicated that the composition of the plants must be chosen carefully, especially when the flowering of the flower margins and the crop coincide, to avoid them competing for pollinators. The results obtained show, according to the note, that the "strategy of using flowering plants in the agricultural environment could increase the population of bees and, therefore, improve the pollination of the species with the consequent benefit for the crops." The implementation of flower margins offers alternative sources of pollen and ...

Source: Agroclm