Changes in fruit quality as influenced by shading of netted melon plants (Cucumis melo L. 'Andesu' and 'Luster')

Biochemical changes in ripening netted melon fruits (Cucumis melo L. 'Andes u' and 'Luster') as influenced by shading were determined. Shading resulted in a rapid loss of flesh firmness in both cultivars which was positively c orrelated with ethylene production. The rapid accumulation of sucrose obser ved by sun-exposed plants was significantly inhibited by shading. Almost no significant difference, however, occurred in glucose and fructose concentr ations between shaded and unshaded plants. Shading accelerated the formatio n of the "water-soaked" symptom in the flesh. Our results show that sunligh t far netted melon plants during fruit maturation is important not only for sucrose accumulation but also for the maintenance of fruit firmness.