Abstract
The effects of node order of fruit set on total leaf area and final fruit weight were examined in vertically trained watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. et Nakai] plants. Two primary lateral vines were allowed to grow in each plant, and one fruit per plant was set at the 5-7th, 8-11th, 14-16th or 18-22nd node. Each vine was pinched at the 22nd node. As the nodal order of fruit set rose, fruit weight became larger, while the amount of soluble solids in the fruit decreased. Total leaf area per plant during the fruit development period increased as the node order of fruit set rose. Fruit weight at harvest was closely related to the total leaf area per plant 5 days, 20 days and 40 days (at harvest) after pollination. We concluded that decreased photosynthetic production due to small leaf area and competition between fruit and vegetative organs during the fruit development period would cause smaller fruit in plants with fruit at a lower node.
