Watermelon breeders face challenges in improving yield and quality due to the need for proper evaluation through replicated plots and multiple traits selection. Most U.S. breeders use 1-row or 3-row plots, 30-50 ft long, with 10-20 plants per plot, harvested 1-3 times. Studies show that a 6-plant plot, 12 ft long, is more efficient than other configurations. Additionally, 3-row plots are unnecessary to reduce variety competition. Significant yield differences were observed in diverse varieties tested in North Carolina environments. (Neppl and Wehner, 2001; Gusmini and Wehner, 2005).
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