Protection methods
 

Unfortunately, during cultivation, no measure makes it possible to effectively control this fungus, which is still not very aggressive on Cucurbitaceae in France. In any case, it will be necessary to eliminate the plant debris or to bury it deeply so that the fungus can be subjected to the action of potential antagonists of the soil.
Normally, given the still confidential nature of the disease on melon, the implementation of specific control methods will not be necessary during the next crop.

If you still encounter difficulties in certain plots, we recommend the following measures:
- choose plots free from this fungus. Rotations of 3 to 4 years with certain cereals such as wheat or barley will be carried out;
- avoid previous crops involving sensitive plants such as sunflowers ;
- drain the soil in order to avoid the presence of puddles in the plots;
- soil fumigation and solarization do not seem to effectively control the attacks of this fungus;
- mulch the soil in order to create a screen between the latter, which is infected, and the fruits;
- avoid high plant densities and ensure optimal fertilization , particularly in nitrogen and phosphorus;
- avoid water stress to plants;
- avoid harvesting injured and / or overripe fruits.

Rare lines of melon (in the "piel de sapo" type) cultivated in particular in Spain where this soil-borne fungus can be very damaging are said to be resistant.


* Chemical control : As the number of pesticides available for a given use is constantly changing, we advise you to always confirm your choice by consulting the e-phy site of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries which is an online catalog of products phytopharmaceuticals and their uses, fertilizers and growing media approved in France. This also applies to all biological products based on microorganisms or natural substances.