Production of Galia-Type Muskmelon Using a Passive Ventilated Greenhouse and Soilless Culture

Galia-type muskmelons are the leading melon for consumer choice in Europe. The melon generally sells for U.S. $2 to $4 each and although Galia is currently found in some United States markets, it does not always possess the high quality consistent with that found in European markets. Achieving constant, high quality production has not been possible under normal field production in Florida, but can be done with protected structures. Evaluation of different nitrogen levels used in the complete nutrient solution recommended for soilless vegetable production, demonstrated that maintaining a single nitrogen concentration, instead of alternating various levels throughout the season, did not reduce yield and quality of Galia melon fruits. Furthermore, using locally available pine bark, a less expensive material than other available growing media such as perlite, may give growers an alternative that could lower their production costs and still obtain good yields and high fruit quality.