APPLICATION OF POTASSIUM THROUGH IRRIGATI ON WATER ON THE MELON CROP

In order to evaluate the effects of the application of potassium throu gh irrigation. water on the melon crop (Cucumis melo L.), cv. Eldorado 300, a study was carried out at Bebedouro Experimental Station, EMBRA PA-CPATSA, Petrolina, PE, Brazil. Three periods of fertirrigation were used- up to 30, up to 42 and up to 55 days after germination. Phospho rus and 55% of the nitrogen were applied at planting time and the 45% remaning nitrogen were applied 30 days after planting. The trickle irr igation system was used. The highest yields were 28.05 and 25.18 ton./ ha for the two greatest periods of fertirrigation, respectively. The a pplication of potassium through irrigation water did not affect the ch emical characteristics of the fruit, such as soluble solids content, t otal acidity and pH.