Preliminary evaluation of compatibility, growth and yield of Khatooni melon’s scion ‎on different cucurbit rootstocks in the field condition

In order to investigate the compatibility of the melon (khatooni) scions on different cucurbit rootstocks, a field experiment was conducted based on a complete blocks design with three replications in Horticultural Science Research Station of University of Tehran during 2017. Seven different rootstocks named as Rout Power, ES 900, RZ12, Nongwoo 01, RZ6, PS580, Shintozwa and additionally control rootstock (Khatooni) and Khatooni as scion were used in the current research. Compatibility these rootstocks evaluated based on plant growth pattern, performance and fruit quality of Khatooni melon. The highest fruit yield obtained on RZ6 and ES rootstocks, respectively. Large number of fruit per plant was observed on Shintozwa and Rout Power rootstocks, respectively and the highest total soluble solids was found on Shintozwa rootstock. Electrical conductivity of raw sap was higher in the grafted plants compared to non-grafted plants. Maximum amount of raw sap per day was collected from Nongwoo 01 rootstock. Maximum percentage of root dry weight was found on the Nongwoo 01 as compatible rootstock which was significantly higher than other grafted rootstocks and control. The first morphological signs of incompatibility were detected by increasing the diameter difference between grafting union and rootstock or scion. This diameter difference was significantly higher for PS580 as incompatible rootstock compared to Nongwoo 01 as compatible rootstock. Based on the results, Shintozwa and Rout Power rootstocks could be recommended as appropriate and compatible rootstocks for the khatooni melon.