Question
Dear George,
I am a trained farmer in the UK, and my express purpose is to practice sustainable farming in
Ondo State Nigeria. It is a tropical region with wet and dry seasons. Can I grow these new
breeds of melon under such conditions? If yes, how can I get hold of seeds please?
Mike Akers
George
Dear Mike,
Yes, Mike, you can grow melons under tropical conditions. The only limitation is diseases. You
must also decide which type of melons you are interested in – Galia or Ananas.
The main problem you’ll face is the high relative humidity, especially during wet seasons.
Downy Mildew (DM) and bacterial diseases may also be problematic. Most of Hazera’s varieties
offer resistance to Fusarium & Powdery Mildew (PM). To be on the safe side, it is best to grow
melons in the dry season.
As to your question about where you can purchase our melon seeds, we have a dealer in
Nigeria and I will send you his details.
Wishing you all the best,
George Arraf – Agro Technical Support Specialist