Description

Watermelon Kaolack is a highly regarded open-pollinated variety (OPV) of watermelon, known for its early maturity, attractive appearance, and sweet red flesh. Developed for cultivation in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates, Kaolack is especially popular across West African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal. It is a farmer-preferred choice for both local consumption and commercial markets due to its reliable performance, disease resistance, and marketable fruit quality.

Key Agronomic Features
Maturity Period: 70–90 days from sowing, allowing for quicker harvesting cycles and greater production efficiency.

Fruit Size: Produces uniform fruits weighing between 5–6 kg, with some reaching up to 8 kg under optimal conditions.

Fruit Appearance: Oval to round fruits with a light green rind and medium green stripes, highly attractive for market display.

Flesh Quality: Deep red, firm, and exceptionally sweet, making it ideal for fresh consumption and juicing.

Seed Type: Open-pollinated, allowing farmers to save seeds while maintaining acceptable yield potential.

Disease Resistance & Adaptability
Watermelon Kaolack offers moderate resistance to major watermelon diseases, including:

Fusarium wilt

Anthracnose

Its hardiness and adaptability make it suitable for various soil types and climate conditions, especially in regions with low to moderate rainfall and intense sunlight.

Cultivation Guidelines
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy-loam soils with a pH range of 5.8–6.2.

Sowing Rate: Approx. 350–400 grams per hectare.

Spacing: Plant 4–5 seeds per hole, then thin to the most vigorous plant after germination.

Temperature Requirements:

Germination: 27–32°C

Growth: 18–30°C

Fruit Ripening: 15–25°C

Sunlight: Requires full sun exposure throughout its growth cycle.

Benefits to Farmers
High Yield Potential: Consistent yields and uniform fruits boost farm profitability.

Early Harvest: Faster maturity allows for staggered planting and multiple harvests per season.

Strong Market Demand: The appealing look and taste of Kaolack watermelons make them popular in both local and regional markets.

Seed Reusability: Farmers can save seeds from healthy plants for future use, reducing input costs.