FERTILIZATION ON MELON CROP THROUGH IRRIG ATION WATER

In order to evaluate the effect of the application of nitrogen and pot assium through irrigation water on the melon crop (Cucumis melo L.), c v. Eldorado 300, a study was carried out at the Bebedouro Experiment S tation, EMBRAPA-CPATSA, Petrolina, PE, Brazil, Two fertirrigation freq uencies (daily and three times a week) and eight periods of nitrogen a pplication, up to 55 days after germination, were used. In the control , 55% of the N and 100% of the K were applied at planting time and the 45% remaining N, applied 30 days after planting. In the other treatme nts, K was applied through irrigation water up to 42 days after germin ation. The trickle irrigation system was used. The highest yields were 26.40 tons/ha and 25.89 tons/ha with daily fertirrigation for the per iods of up to 42 and 55 days, respectively. The application of N and K through irrigation water did not alter the chemical characteristics, soluble solids content, total acidity and pH of the melon fruits. Base d on the results, the daily frequency and the application of N up to 4 2 days of the crop cicle can be recommended.