Chart 1. Watermelon Fertility Programs

Transcription

1 Melons Watermelons Watermelon Fertilizer Program Comparison (2004) Fertilizer Program Comparison on Watermelons (2005) Watermelons (2006) Two-year Summary Watermelon Fertilizer Trials ( ) Watermelon Drip Irrigation (2007) Watermelon Foliar (2007) Soil and Foliar Fertilizers (2008) Pre-plant or split-applications of fertilizer for optimizing watermelon production (2009) Cantaloupe Cantaloupe Fertility Programs (2005) Cantaloupes (2006) Cantaloupe Fertility Programs 2 Year Summary ( ) Cantaloupe Drip (2007) Cantaloupe Foliar (2007) Foliar applications of fertilizer for optimizing cantaloupe production (2009) Research011021NRG

2 Experiment: Fertilizer Program Comparison on Watermelons Year: 2004 (03-34) Date of Planting/Harvest: transplant / 7-19 thru 9-30 Plot Size: 5 x 15 Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 6.4 P1 ~ 52 CEC ~ 5 K ~ 121 OM ~ 1.5% (6.2% K) Chart 1. Watermelon Fertility Programs North Central Research Station Fertilizer Program Melons/A Ton/A Avg Melon Wt Agro-Culture Liquid* Conventional** Untreated Check LSD (0.2) * 5 gal/a High NRG-N + 7 gal/a gal/a Sure-K + 2 qt/a Micro 500 (2 x 2 at planting) 6 gal/a High NRG-N (SD x 2) ** 235 lbs/a lbs/a (PPI); 10 gal/a 28% UAN ( SD x 2) Watermelon harvest was done by hand beginning in mid-july and continued thru the end of September. Each melon was weighed to calculate harvestable yield. Fertilizer programs comparing Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers to a conventional dry program were evaluated. Both fertilizer programs increased production, weight, and melon size compared to the untreated check. Dry fertilizer was broadcast incorporated prior to planting. Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers was placed in a band two inches to the side and two inches below transplant placement. Sidedress applications were applied in a band along the irrigation line and were made at vine run and fruit set. The Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers program increased the number of melons per acre, average melon size, and tons/a over the conventional fertilizer program. A grower s profit can be greatly increased by producing more melons per acre and larger melons along with reducing the number of applications required by the conventional program.

3 Experiment: Fertilizer Program Comparison on Watermelons Year: 2005 (05-34) Date of Planting/Harvest: transplant / 8-17 thru 9-15 Plot Size: 5 x 15 Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) As with many other crops, variety plays a huge roll in overall yield capability this very important to remember, especially when working with watermelons. Each variety produces different size and shaped melons. Location also plays a roll in melon production. Most watermelons grown in the northern part of the country are smaller shaped melons which produce lower yields than those grown in southern states. Watermelon Fertilizer Programs ACLF: 2 gal/a High NRG-N + 2 gal/a Pro- Germinator + 11 gal/a Sure-K + 2 qt/a Micro 500 (band next to row at transplant); 18 gal/a High NRG-N (sidedress at vine run) ACLF + Foliar: ACLF (above) + 2 gal/a Sure-K + 1 gal/a Nutr. Foliar + 2 oz/a PTS (weekly foliars from fruit set through harvest - 7 applications) Conventional: 230 lbs/a lbs/a (preplant broadcast); 30 gal/a 28% UAN (sidedress at vine run) No Fertilizer Check In the past few years, research at the North Central Research Station has been on the variety Crimson Sweet which is a small basketball shaped melon. Jubilee was used in the 2005 plot work. This variety is a larger, longer melon typically weighing around 20 pounds each. When looking at local production along with past research please note that comparisons between years/variety yields can not be made; however, differences between treatments should be relative to one another. Watermelon Fertility Programs North Central Research Station Fertilizer Total Total Wt Avg. Size Program melons/a ton/a lbs/melon Agro-Culture Liquid ACLF + Foliar Conventional Untreated Check LSD (0.2)

4 Watermelon harvest was done by hand beginning in mid-july and continued through mid-september. Each melon was weighed to calculate harvestable yield. Fertilizer programs comparing Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers to a conventional dry program were evaluated. Both fertilizer programs increased production, weight, and melon size compared to the untreated check. Dry fertilizer was broadcast and incorporated prior to planting. Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers was placed in a band two inches to the side and two inches below transplant placement. Sidedress applications, on June 23 were applied in a band to the side of the row, melons were just beginning vine run. The Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers program was very similar in number of melons per acre, average melon size, and tons/a compared to the conventional fertilizer program. A grower s profit can be greatly increased by producing good melons per acre and larger melons along with reducing the number of applications required by the conventional program. A foliar program of 2 gal/a Sure-K + 1 gal/a Nutritional Foliar + 2 oz PTS (a protein cell carrier with a tri-alcohol growth stimulant that boosts the crops ability to store energy for the photosynthetic process.) was applied weekly with a pressurized backpack sprayer. These applications were made in addition to the complete Agro- Culture Liquid Fertilizers Program at transplant and sidedress. Foliar applications showed positive results, greatly increasing watermelon numbers, size, and overall yields.

5 Experiment: Watermelons Year (Experiment Number): 2006 (06-204) Date of Planting/Harvest: May 24 / Aug & Sept Hybrid: Crimson Sweet Plot Size (replications): 15 x 5, 3 Reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) The objective for this trials was to compare various Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs that were developed to promote early yield of watermelon as well as maximize total season production. Comparison with a conventional fertilizer program was also made. US Watermelon acreage was just over 150 K acres in The July 4 th holiday weekend is the single largest market opportunity for watermelons. Planting for this date and producing a higher percentage of the marketable melons at the earliest harvests will typically offer the greatest value per acre to the producers. However, watermelons are consumed almost all summer long and staggered plantings and/or multiple harvests are commonly used to extend growers watermelon production capacity and profitability. Maintaining an established crop is much less expensive than establishing a new one. Still, high quality melons must be continuously produced for each successive harvest to justify maintaining a field and to offset harvest costs. Therefore, The use of foliar fertilizer programs to promote maturity and sustain high quantities of marketable quality melons were evaluated. Crimson Sweet watermelons were transplanted into the research plots on May 24, Each plot was 15 x 5 and consisted of five plants (36 between plants). The entire plot area received the equivalent of 20 tons/acre of dairy manure prior to being plowed to a depth of 6 during fall tillage. In the spring, a tractor mounted rotortiller was used to prepare the plots for planting. The Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer products were banded by a custom built application cart with a fertilizer knife that placed them two inches below and two inches to the side of the plants just after transplanting. The same applicator was used for side dressing additional nitrogen on June 13 th. However, the vines were just starting to run, so the application was made about 6-8 to the side of the planted row. Dry fertilizer was broadcast and incorporated prior to trans-planting as show. Table W1. Watermelon Fertility Programs and application methods for Method of Treatment Rate/A (gal.) Application 1 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ + Sure-K + Micro qt Band at planting High NRG-N 18 Sidedress 2 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ + Sure-K + Micro qt Band at planting High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Sure-K + Nutritional Foliar Weekly foliar 3 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ + Sure-K + Micro qt Band at planting High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Sure-K + Nutritional Foliar + PTS oz Weekly foliar 4 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ + Sure-K + Micro qt band at planting High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Experimental Foliar #1 3 Weekly Foliar # Broadcast # Broadcast 28% UAN 30 Sidedress

6 The foliar applications utilized for this trial were started with initial fruit set on July 7 th Treatments were reapplied every 7-10 days, until September 5 th when the last application was applied. A total of eight applications for each foliar treatment were made during the growing season. All foliar applications were made with a backpack sprayer and hand boom equipped with flat fan nozzles. These fertilizer mixtures were diluted with water and applied at a total volume of 15 gallons per acre. Fungicides and insecticides were applied separately, but in a similar manner as needed throughout the season. PTS in treatment #3 is Protriastim, a protein cell carrier with a tri-alcohol growth stimulant that boosts the crops ability to store energy for the photosynthetic process. Watermelons were harvested on a regular basis beginning on August 3 rd and continued until Sept 28 th. Each mature melon was harvested by hand and weighted individually at maturity. Each melon was deemed mature when the tendril on the vine nearest the melon turned brown. RESULTS: Watermelon yield for all Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer treatments were numerically greater than the Conventional fertilizer program. (Table W2) The addition of Sure-K and Nutritional Foliar (trt. 2) resulted in melons that averaged 2.0 lb. (14%) heavier than the standard Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer program (trt.1) on average. Still, the average size of the melons harvested was statistically similar for all treatments. There was also a noticeable difference in the maturity or earliness of some treatments. The use of the Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer products (trt 1-3) resulted in over 31% of the total yield occurred at the first of six harvests compared to only 21.1% for dry fertility treatment (Table W3). Table W2. Effect of Fertility programs on individual harvests, total watermelon yield and average watermelon size from 2006 trial. Harvest 1 Harvest 2 Harvest 3 Harvests 4-6 (total) Total Yield Avg. Wt Treatment Yield (tons / Acre) (lb./melon) 1 Plant/SD Plant/SD/Foliar Plant/SD/Foliar & PTS Plant/SD/Exp Foliar # Conventional Program

7 Table W3. Effect of Fertility Program on yield distribution by harvest for watermelons. Harvest 1 Harvest 2 Harvest 3 Harvests 4-6 (total) Treatment Percentage of total yield by harvest 1 Plant/SD 32.3% 28.7% 9.5% 29.5% 2 Plant/SD/Foliar 33.1% 19.8% 9.2% 37.9% 3 Plant/SD/Foliar & PTS 30.7% 24.6% 19.9% 24.8% 4 Plant/SD/Exp Foliar #1 25.2% 19.2% 16.3% 39.4% 5 Conventional Program 21.1% 40.3% 10.7% 27.9% Conventional fertilizers were applied according to published guidelines from Michigan State University s Nutrient Recommendations for Vegetable Crops in Michigan. Ext Bulletin E2934, 2004 Conclusions: Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs that were utilized in this trial promoted total yields and resulted in higher yields in the initial harvest compare to the conventional fertilizer program. This was most obvious for programs which incorporated foliar fertilizer applications.

8 Experiment: Two year Summary Watermelon Fertility Trials Year: 2005 (05-34) and 2006 (06-204) Date of Planting/Harvest: transplant / 8-17 thru / 8-13 thru 9-9 Plot Size: 5 ft. x 15 ft. Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) The objective of these trials was to use foliar fertilizer programs to promote maturity and sustain high quantities of marketable quality watermelons were evaluated. Comparison with a conventional fertilizer program was also made. Last year at the North Central Research Station Jubilee an oblong melon typically weighing around 20 pounds each was used. However, Crimson Sweet watermelons were used in This variety is was more of a round or basketball shaped melon. When looking at local production along with past research please note that comparisons between years/variety yields can not be made; however, differences between treatments should be relative to one another. Watermelon harvest was completed by hand beginning in mid to late July and continued through mid-september. Each melon was weighed and counted to calculate harvestable yield. Dry fertilizer was broadcast and incorporated prior to planting. Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers was placed in a band two inches to the side and two inches below Table W1. Watermelon Fertility Programs and application methods for Treatment Rate/A (gal.) Method of Application 1 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ + Sure-K + Micro qt Band at planting High NRG-N 18 Sidedress 2 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ + Sure-K + Micro qt Band at planting High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Sure-K + Nutritional Foliar Weekly foliar # Broadcast # Broadcast 28% UAN 30 Sidedress transplant placement. Sidedress applications were applied about one month after planting in a band two inches deep and to the side of the row as the melons were just beginning vine run. RESULTS: Fertilizer programs comparing Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers to a conventional dry As with many other crops, variety plays a huge roll in overall yield capability this very important to remember, especially when working with watermelons. Each variety produces different size and shaped melons. Location also plays a roll in melon production. Most watermelons grown in the northern part of the country are smaller shaped melons which produce lower yields than those grown in southern states. Effects of Fertilizer Program on Watermelon Yields North Central Research Station Melons (number/acre) Melon Size (lb/fruit) Total Yield (tons/acre) Fertility Program Avg. No Avg. Size Avg. Yld. ACLF ACLF & Foliar Conventional Fertility LSD (P<0.20)

9 program were evaluated. ACLF fertilizer programs increased production, weight, and melon size compared to the convention fertility program. Melon counts, melon size and total yield were lowest with the conventional fertilizer program. A foliar program of 2 gal/a Sure-K + 1 gal/a Nutritional Foliar applied regularly (every 7-10 days) with a pressurized backpack sprayer made in addition to the complete Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer Program at transplant and sidedress had the largest melons and greatest yield produced of any fertility program evaluated. The average Watermelon yield was increased by over 10 and 12 tons/a per acre compared to the convention fertility program. Conclusions: Regular foliar applications ACLF fertilizers showed very positive results, greatly increasing watermelon size and overall yields both years of these trials at the North Central Research Station.

10 Experiment: Watermelons Drip Irrigation Fertilizer Programs Year (Experiment Number): 2007 (07-103) Date of Planting/Harvest: May / Aug & Early Sept Hybrid: Ruby Seedless / Jenny (Pollinator) Plot Size (replications): 15 x 5, 3 Reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) Watermelons are consumed almost all summer long and staggered plantings and/or multiple harvests are commonly used to extend growers watermelon production capacity and profitability. Maintaining an established crop can be less expensive and faster than establishing a new crop. Still, high quality melons must be continuously produced for each successive harvest to justify maintaining a field and to offset harvest costs. Further, the current market is shifting very quickly to seedless watermelons. With these factors in mind, various Agro- Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs were developed to promote early yield of watermelon as well as maximize fruit set and sizing over a prolonged harvest period was evaluated. Comparison with a conventional fertilizer program was also made. The entire plot area was soybeans in the season prior to this trial. The stubble was lightly worked in the spring with a field cultivator to prepare for establishment of the plots. A yield goal of 12 tons/acre along with Michigan State University s Vegetable Fertility Guide (E2934) was used as the basis for fertility levels. The dry fertilizers were broadcast then lightly incorporated, liquid fertilizer materials were banded on the soil surface in the center of selected plot areas and then all plots were formed into beds (4 tall x 24 wide) with plastic mulch covering the center of each plot. Forming the bed placed the liquid fertilizers approximately 3-4 below the top-center of each bed. Ruby Seedless and Jenny (pollinator) watermelons were transplanted into the research plots on May 11, Each plot was 15 x 5 and consisted of five hills (36 between hills). The first and last plants were the pollinator variety Jenny and the three central plants were ruby seedless. Table WD1. Drip Irrigation Fertility Programs for Seedless Watermelons in 2007 Method of Treatment (Yield goal = 12 tons/acre) Rate/A (gal/a) Application 1 Untreated Control 0 na Mn+Zn water 2 28% UAN 100#, 180#, 5#, 4# Mn+Zn % UAN HN+SK + Micro 500+Mn PG High NRG-NR 100#, 15.4, 5#, 4# , 4.6, 1 qt, 1 pt 6.4, 4 PPI Transplant Drip/Wk PPI/band Transplant Drip/Wk Band Transplant Drip/wk 28% w/ enhance + SK + Micro Mn PG 5 28% w/ enhance + SK + PG 5, 4.6, 1 qt, 1 pt , 1qt, 1qt Band Transplant Drip/wk SK = Sure-K, PG=Pro-Germinator, HN = High HRG-N, NR = High HRG-NR, Mn = Manganese Flavanol A transplant solution and/or water at approximately 400 GPA was used to aid in the establishment of these plants, exact products and rates described above (Table WD1).

11 Drip irrigation fertilizer applications started on June 12 th (just prior to running) and continued on a regular basis until two weeks prior to the last anticipated harvest date. The drip lines for each plot were equipped with a valve at the header line. This allowed water/fertilizer to be directed to selected plots during application. The fertilizer treatments were diluted into a total volume of 15 gallons of water. Fifteen additional gallons of additional water was used to flush the header lines and drip lines between treatments. Finally, all plots were irrigated for at least 4 additional hours following any fertilizer application to distribute the fertilizer within each plot. Watermelons were harvested on a regular basis beginning on August 3 rd until Sept 10 th. Each mature melon was harvested by hand and weighted at maturity. Each melon was deemed mature when the tendril on the vine nearest the melon turned brown. RESULTS: Watermelons yields were very similar for both conventional fertilizer programs. The use of liquid fertilizer showed a small advantage over a total dry fertility program (Chart WD1 - Trt #2 vs. #3). Both programs significantly enhanced yields compared to the untreated control. Watermelon yield for both Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer treatments were significantly greater than the Conventional fertilizer programs and untreated control. However, the two ACLF treatments were statistically similar to each other. When a portion of the Sure-K and Pro-Germinator was added to the enhanced 28% UAN applications (Trt 5), the resulting melon yields were the highest in the trial. However, a majority of the yield for this treatment occurred in the later part of the season (Chart WD 2). Possibly if 100% of the recommended P&K had been applied prior to planting, the in-season the applications of Pro-Germinator and Sure-K would have had better early season yields as well as opportunity for late season yield enhancement. Yield (Tons/Acre) Total yield after 13 harvests (1 month) Chart WD1. Full season Watermelon yields from drip irrigation applications of various fertilizer programs. Measured yields for this trial were well above projected yield goals for all fertility programs in the trial. Border effects with these small plots allowed vines to grow into the open area between plots causing an overestimation of the actual yields. Still, all fertility programs benefited from these factors and therefore treatment differences should be considered valid.

12 Yields from the best treatment, ACLF fertility with drip irrigation applications of enhanced 28% UAN, Pro-Germ and Sure-K, was 161% greater than the untreated control and 40% greater than the conventional fertility program Untreated Std Dry w/ 28% UAN Std Liquids & potash ACLF w/ HNR ACLF w/ 28%, enhance, PG, SK Yield (Tons/Acre) Drip irrigation watermelon yields by date Chart WD 2. Watermelon yields by date for various drip fertilizer programs during the 2007 growing season. Watermelon plots prior to initial harvest.

13 Experiment: Watermelons Foliar Fertilizers Year (Experiment Number): 2007 (07-105) Date of Planting/Harvest: May / Aug & Early Sept Hybrid: Crimson Sweet (Seeded) Plot Size (replications): 15 x 5, 3 Reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) Watermelons are consumed almost all summer long and staggered plantings and/or multiple harvests are commonly used to extend growers watermelon production capacity and profitability. Maintaining an established crop can be much less expensive and faster than establishing a new one. Still, high quality melons must be continuously produced for each successive harvest to justify maintaining a field and to offset harvest costs. With these factors in mind, various Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs were developed to promote early yield of watermelon as well as maximize fruit set and sizing over the total seasons production. The use of foliar fertilizer programs to promote maturity and/or sustain high quantities of marketable quality melons over a prolonged period was evaluated. Comparison with a conventional fertilizer program was also made. The entire plot area was soybeans in the season prior to this trial. The stubble was lightly worked in the spring with a field cultivator to prepare for establishment of the plots. A yield goal of 12 tons/acre along with Michigan State University s Vegetable Fertility Guide (E2934) was used as the basis for fertility levels. The dry fertilizers were broadcast then lightly incorporated, liquid fertilizer materials were banded on the soil surface in the center of selected plot areas and then all plots were formed into beds (4 tall x 24 wide) with plastic mulch covering the center of each plot. Forming the bed placed the liquid fertilizers approximately 3-4 below the top-center of each bed. Crimson Sweet watermelons were direct seeded into the research plots on May 14, Each plot was 15 x 5 and consisted of five hills (36 between hills). Table 2. Soil and Foliar Fertility programs for Watermelons. Treatment (Yield goal = 12 tons/acre) Rate/A (gal/a) Method of Application , , Mn, Zn 28% UAN 100#, 180#, 5#, 4# 33.5 PPI Band , Mn, Zn (Conventional Std.) 28% UAN #, 5#, 4# PPI Band 3 HN + PG + SK + M Mn (ACLF Standard) 26, 6.4, 4.6, 2.3 qt, 1 pt Pre-Plant Band SK = Sure-K, PG=Pro-Germinator, HN = High HRG-N, M-500=Micro 500, Mn = Manganese Flavanol Watermelons were harvested on a regular basis (3-5 days) beginning on August 3 rd until Sept 10 th. Each mature melon was harvested by hand and weighted at maturity. Each melon was deemed mature when the tendril on the vine nearest the melon turned brown. RESULTS: The total season watermelon yields for the Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer program was numerically greater than the Conventional fertilizer programs. (Chart W1).

14 Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer program that was utilized in this trial promoted total yields, with the greatest impact during the later weeks compared to the conventional fertilizer programs (Chart W2). However, the initial harvests were statistically similar to both conventional fertility programs. Measured yields for these watermelons were well above projected yield goal of 12 tons/acre for all fertility programs in this trial. Most likely contribution was from a border effect with these small plots that allowed vines to grow into the open area between plots causing an overestimation of the actual yields. Still, all fertility programs benefited from these factors and therefore treatment differences should be considered valid. Yield (Tons/Acre) Total for all Harvests Dry & 28% Conv. Liquids & Potash ACLF Chart W1. Effect of Fertility programs on total season watermelon yield for Yield (Tons/Acre) Week of Harvest 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Conv. Dry Conv. Liquids ACLF Chart W2. Effect of Fertility programs on weekly harvest totals for watermelon yield.

15 Experiment: Watermelons Soil and Foliar Fertilizers Year (Experiment Number): 2008 (08-105) Date of Planting/Harvest: May / Aug & Early Sept Hybrid: Crimson Sweet (Seeded) Plot Size (replications): 15 x 5, 3 Reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 18% (3 5% K) Various Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs were developed hoping to promote early yield of watermelon as well as maximize fruit set, fruit sizing and enhance the total season s production. Foliar fertilizer programs were utilized to promote maturity and/or sustain high quantities of marketable quality melons over a prolonged harvest. Comparison with a conventional fertilizer program was also made. The entire plot area was tomatoes and bell peppers the season prior to this trial. The residue was chisel plowed in the fall and lightly worked in the spring with a field cultivator to prepare for establishment of the plots. A yield goal of 22.5 tons/acre along with Michigan State University s Vegetable Fertility Guide (E2934) was used as the basis for fertility levels. The base N: P 2 O 5 : K 2 O rates used for all plots were 150, 83 and 85 pounds per acre respectively. Table W1. Soil and Foliar Fertility programs for Watermelons. Treatment Rate/A (gal/a) Method of Application 1 Untreated NA Mn+B+Zn 142# + 5# + 1# + 4# broadcast transplant 2 28% UAN Band PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn qt + 2 pt transplant 3 HN + Sure-K band PGK + SK+ Micro 500+ Mn qt + 2 pt transplant 4 HN + Sure-K band PG + SK+ Micro 500+ Mn qt + 2 pt transplant HN + Sure-K band 5 G-07 + SK 2 qt+2 Foliar PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn qt + 2 pt transplant HN + Sure-K band 6 F-07 3 Foliar PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn qt + 2 pt transplant HN + Sure-K band 7 WPT+SK 2qt + 2 Foliar Mn+B 142#+130#+ 5#+ 1#+ 4# broadcast transplant 8 28% UAN 5.5 Drip/Week PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn qt + 2 pt transplant HN + Sure-K band 9 HN + Sure-K Drip/Week PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn qt + 2 pt transplant 10 HN + Sure-K + PG Drip/Week SK = Sure-K TM, PG=Pro-Germinator TM, HN = High NRG-N TM, M-500=Micro 500, Mn = Manganese Flavonol, F07= Experimental foliar fertilizer, G07 Experimental Foliar, WPT = Woody Plants & Trees.

16 The dry fertilizers were broadcast then lightly incorporated, liquid fertilizer materials were banded on the soil surface in the center of selected plot areas and then all plots were formed into beds (4 tall x 24 wide) with plastic mulch covering the center of each plot. Forming the bed placed the banded liquid fertilizers approximately 3-4 below the top-center of each bed. Ruby seedless watermelons were the main variety transplanted into the research plots on May 21, Each plot was 30 x 5 and consisted of ten plants with 36 between them. The pollinator species utilized was the variety Jenny and the two varieties were inter-planted to facilitate pollination. Each plot contained four Jenny plants and six Ruby seedless plants. Due to the extensive vine growth of the Jenny variety, only the Ruby Seedless melons were evaluated for this trial. A transplant solution and/or water at ~9 oz/plant or approximately 200 GPA was used to aid in the establishment of these plants, exact products and rates described above (Table W1). Drip irrigation fertilizer applications started on June 12 th (just prior to running) and continued on a regular basis until August 11 (initial harvest). The drip lines for each plot were equipped with a valve at the header line. This allowed water/fertilizer to be directed to selected plots during application. The fertilizer treatments were diluted into a total volume of 15 gallons of water. Fifteen additional gallons of additional water was used to flush the header lines and drip lines between treatments. Finally, all plots were irrigated for at least 4 additional hours following any fertilizer application to distribute the fertilizer within each plot. Foliar applications were made 5 times over the season with approximately 2 weeks between treatments. The initial application was made at ~5% bloom on June 25th. All foliar applications were made with a backpack sprayer and hand boom equipped with flat fan nozzles. The fertilizer mixtures were diluted with water and applied at a total volume of 15 gallons per acre. Watermelons were harvested on a regular basis (5-7 days) beginning on August 11 th until Sept 9 th. Melons were harvested by hand, counted and weighted at maturity. Each melon was deemed mature when the tendril on the vine nearest the melon turned brown. RESULTS: Four of the ACLF based fertility programs exceeded the total season watermelon yield goal of 22.5 tons per acre (Figure W1). Fertility programs #6 and #10 were also significantly greater than the conventional fertility program (Trt. #2). While the un-fertilized plots produced slightly over 16 tons per acre, the highest yield treatment (Trt. #10) averaged nearly 28 tons per acre. The ACLF Base fertility program (Trt #3) was among the best programs in this trial, producing 25.2 tons per acre. Nearly 2/3 of this treatments seasonal Figure W1. Watermelon Yield from Five Harvests in 2008 from Various Fertility Programs.

17 yield was collected by the third of five harvests. While not statistically different from the rest, it also had the heaviest melons on average for all treatment across the five harvests, 13.5 lb each (Figure W2). The use of the F07 foliar with the ACLF Base fertility program enhanced the yield to 26.6 tons per acre, a 1.4 tons/a increase. The final harvest was the main difference between these treatments (#3 and #6). The use of PGK (Trt. #4), an experimental formulation of Pro-Germinator, was one of the lower yielding fertility programs in the trial. The yields were dramatically lower than the identical program that utilized Pro-Germinator (Trt #3). The experimental foliar G07 did change the seasonal yield distribution of the watermelons compared to the ACLF Base programs over which it was applied. However, the total yields after the five harvests for both treatments were similar. The other foliar program that utilized applications of Woody Plant & Trees (Trt #7). Yields were also similar in yield to the ACLF Base program. Last year this foliar program was applied weekly and this year the application interval was 14 days. The change in schedule may be related to the change in the yield response observed. Treatment programs #8 & #9 in this trial utilized the drip irrigation tubing for the application of the nitrogen during the growing season. Comparisons with the two equivalent pre-plant fertility programs (Trt #2 & # 3) showed a numerical yield advantage to the total pre-plant application. A similar trend was seen for the Conventional fertility and ACLF fertility programs. The reduced P yields for the drip irrigation applications may indicate that the nitrogen applications should have started sooner for treatments 8 & 9. Perhaps starting nitrogen applications a week or two earlier would have resulted in greater vine growth and potentially higher yields for the drip irrigation applications. The early season yields would most likely shown the greatest improvement from more timely nitrogen application. The last treatment in this trial (#9) provided some very interesting responses on several counts. This treatment utilized the drip tape not only for nitrogen, but also as a way to apply a portion (20%) of the Sure-K and Pro-Germinator for the watermelons in-season. Like treatments #8 & #9, the early yields were reduced due to delayed nitrogen applications. However, the final harvests more than compensated and the total season yield was the best of all treatments in this trial, 27.7 tons/acre. A slow start, but a strong finish. CONCLUSIONS: Figure W2. Seasonal Average for Watermelon Size from Various Fertility

18 The ACLF Base fertility program yielded very well and it was still enhanced from the use of some an experimental foliar product (F-07). When fertilizer was applied with the drip irrigation tape, there was a significant yield benefit from being timely and applying a portion of the phosphorus and potassium in-season with the nitrogen.

19 Experiment : Pre plant or split applications of fertilizer for optimizing Watermelon production. Impact of nitrogen type and timing on watermelon yields, Planted: Plot Size: Fertigation: May 4 th 5 x 30 multiple Variety: Replications: Foliar: Ruby Seedless 3 none Population: Harvested: 2900 Multiple Soil Test Values (ppm):: ph CEC % OM P1 K S % K % Mg % Ca % H % Na Zn Mn B Objectives: Determine the impact of in season applications of various nitrogen products, alone or in combination, with phosphorus, potassium or both will promote watermelon yields and/or maturity. Determine if applying 100% of the fertilizer needs pre plant is more effective than using drip irrigation to deliver a portion of the fertility in season. Conclusions: The initial harvest and the next two or three harvests as well as total seasons yields appeared to be influenced by the fertility programs used in this trial. Nitrogen applied as a combination of High NRG N and enhanced 28% UAN (Trt. #4) resulted in the largest initial harvest and it was among the top yielding treatments for the season as well. The ACLF Base program (Trt #3) where 100% of the fertility was applied pre plant was closely matched in yield by Trt. 10, where nearly 100% of the nitrogen was applied during the growing season. The early yields favored Trt. #10, but the middle harvests favored Trt. #3. The various ACLF based programs used in this trial with 100% of the nutrients applied prior to planting (Trt. #3 5) all out yielded the similar application program with conventional products (Trt. #2). Among all the drip fertility based treatmentt programs (Trt. #6 10), the ACLF product combinations matched or generally exceededd the conventional drip application program (Trt. #6). (see next page) *See Product Descriptions in the introduction for more information on ACLF products used. Page 25 BCL NRG

20 Yields for the in season nitrogen application programs were typically below those observed for the 100% pre plant programs. This is the opposite the trend observed in prior trials. The cool growing conditions must have favored the pre plant applications over the in season treatments this year. The nutrient use efficiencies were generally 2 4X greater for the ACLF based programs when compared to conventional materials, regardless of application timing. Table W1. Fertility treatment programs for soil and drip irrigation applied plant nutrients, 2009 OR Application timing, rate and placement information utilized for 2009 watermelon production trial. Treatment Rate/A (gal/a) Method of Application 1 Untreated NA Mn 142#, 140#, 326#, 5#, 1#, 4# broadcast transplant HN + Sure-K band 3 PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn 6.4,2,4 qt, 2 pt transplant HN + en28 + Sure-K band 4 PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn 6.4,2,4 qt, 2 pt transplant en28 + Sure-K band 5 PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn 6.4,2,4 qt, 2 pt transplant Mn 142#, 140#, 196#, 5#, 1#, 4# broadcast transplant 6 28% UAN 2.5 Drip / 8X PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn 6.4,3,4 qt, 2 pt transplant 7 HN + Sure-K + PG Drip/Week HN + Sure-K band PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn 3.8,1.2, 4 qt, 2 pt transplant 8 HNR +PG+SK Drip / 8X HN + Sure-K band PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn 6.4,2,4 qt, 2 pt transplant 9 HNR 2 Drip / 8X PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn 6.4,2,4 qt, 2 pt transplant 10 HNR + Sure-K Drip / 8X Nutra. App. NUE # The plots were established on May XX by banding down the center or broadcasting the appropriate fertilizers into the plot areas and then covering the center 2 ft of each 5 ft wide plot with plastic mulch. Holes were opened in the plastic mulch every 3 ft and then transplants with 2 3 leaves were planted into each hole. Each 30 ft plot contained 8 Ruby Seedless watermelon plants and 3 pollinator plants. During the course of the growing season, irrigation, fungicides and insecticides were applied uniformly to all plots as necessary. The fertigation applications were started as the vines began to run in mid June and were repeated weekly for a total of 8 applications. Since harvest continued until mid September there was no additional fertility applied in the last month of the growing season. Had the growing season been more typical, applications would have continued much later into the harvest period. At each harvest, the vines were used to trace each melon back to their home plots so they could be accurately collected, counted and weighted to determine yields. Melons produced by the pollinator variety were not used for yield evaluations in this trial. #See Appendix V for additional equipment, application and drip irrigation description and information. *See Product Descriptions in the introduction for more information on ACLF products used. Page 26 BCL NRG

21 Appendix V egetables Abbreviations Used o HN = High NRG N o HNR = High NRG NR o PG = Pro Germinator o SK = Sure K o M 500 = Micro 500 o en28 = enhance + 28% UAN mixed according to label instructions o Mn = Manganese Flavanol o ferti Rain = Experimental F 07, a by analysis. Experimental F 07 has been moved from the category of Experimental products into a named foliar fertilizer ferti Rain. The basic analysis for this material is a For more specific product information, please consult the ferti Rain label and use directions. Experimental G 07 remained an experimental foliar fertilizer product for the 2009 growing season. Trials were conducted on various vegetables and some tree fruit crops. See individual research reports for application programs and results obtained for this material ACLF combination was prepared from common ACLF products for use as a foliar fertilizer to replace water soluble fertilizer blends. Due to the differences in nutrient use efficiency for the ACLF products, the actual analysis is only One clear advantage for this product combination has been the ease of use as conventional dry materials must first be solublized prior to mixing and use. Typical use rates evaluated have been 1 2 quarts per acre. Admire and Ridomil pesticides were applied as a soil drench at the recommended rates of application during transplant or shortly after emergence for all direct seeded crops. Fungicides (10 14 day interval) and insecticides (as necessary) were applied throughout the growing season with an air blast backpack sprayer operated at 10 gallons per acre, ensuring through coverage by these pesticides for healthy growth of the plants. Various fungicides and insecticides were used throughout the season to diversify the modes of action and avoid resistance. The rates of use and the frequency of application were based label recommendations for each product applied as well as environmental conditions. Fungicides were applied prophylacticly and insecticides were applied as necessary Drip irrigation Applications when insect pests were found. Fertigation / Fertilizer application with the drip irrigation water was conducted as follows. The drip line for each plot row was equipped with a valve at the header line. This allowed water/fertilizer to be directed to selected plots during irrigation. The amount of fertilizer(s) appropriate for each row was diluted with water up to a total volume of 15 gallons and then pumped into the appropriate plot area. *See Product Descriptions in the introduction for more information on ACLF products used. Page 27 BCL NRG

22 Fifteen additional gallons of additional water was then used to flush the mix tank, pump and header lines between treatments. Following the last fertigation treatment, all plots were irrigated for at least 4 additional hours to further distribute the fertilizer within each plot. Treatment programs were based on a total of 8 fertilizer applications being made during the 2009 season. The 2009 growing season would have allowed for additional applications due to delays in maturity, but stopping at 8 applications kept fertility rates uniform across treatments. Foliar fertilizer applications typically started at full bloom unless otherwise stated and continued on a bi weekly basis until about two weeks prior to the final harvest. All foliar applications were made with a backpack sprayer and hand boom equipped with flat fan nozzles. The fertilizer mixtures were diluted with water and applied at a total volume of 15 gallons per acre. While these applications could have been combined with pesticide applications, they were sprayed separately and never on the same day as pesticide applications to prevent off target application or product interactions. Additionally, no adjuvant was used with any of these applications. Nutrient Use Efficiency by Product Actual Lb Nutrient per gallon for key ACLF products Actual Lb. Nutrient per gallon Product High NRG N High NRG NR Pro Germinator Sure K ferti Rain Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium *See Product Descriptions in the introduction for more information on ACLF products used. Page 28 BCL NRG

23 Experiment: Cantaloupe Fertility Programs (05-31) Year: 2005 (05-31) Date of Planting/Harvest: June 2 / Aug 17 Sept 7 Plot Size: 5 x 15 Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) Cantaloupes Fertility Programs North Central Research Station Fertilizer Total Total Wt Avg. Size Program melons/a ton/a lbs/melon Agro-Culture Liquid ACLF + Foliar Conventional Untreated Check LSD (0.2) ACLF: 2 gal/a High NRG-N + 2 gal/a gal/a Sure-K + 2 qt/a Micro 500 (band at planting); 18 gal/a High NRG-N (sidedress) Foliar: 2 gal/a Sure-K + 1 gal/a Nutr. Foliar + 2 oz PTS (weekly foliar from fruit set through harvest - 7 applications total) Conventional: 180 lbs/a lbs/a (preplant broadcast); 30 gal/a 28% UAN Liquid Fertilizer was placed in a band next to the seed at planting. Sidedress was done on June 23 rd, fertilizer was placed in a band next the row. Dry fertilizer was broadcast and incorporated before planting. Harvest was done by hand beginning on August 17 th and continued thru September 7 th as fruit ripened. Melons were counted and weighed to calculate yield. All fertilizer programs increased the number of melon, melon size, and total yield over the untreated check. Highest yielding program was the Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers programs with the addition of foliar applications. 6.4 tons/a higher than the check and 2.3 tons/a higher than the conventional program. The addition of foliar applications to the Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers program did not produces more melons per area; however, these melons were larger which produces more total tons/acre.

24 Experiment: Cantaloupe Year (Experiment Number): 2006 (06-201) Date of Planting/Harvest: May 23, 2006 / Mid-July to mid Sept Hybrid: Superstar Plot Size (replications): 5 x 15, 3 reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) The objective for this trial was to compare the yield and quality of cantaloupe produced with various Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs. A comparison of Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs with conventional fertilizer products was also made. Cantaloupes were first introduced to North America by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the New World in 1494 ( Since that time the acreage has steadily increased until now there are nearly 91,000 acres of cantaloupes produced in the US with a value of over $300 million (2005 USDA Ag Statistics Vegetable Summary). Still, greater yields and higher quality melons are continuously sought by today s producers. The entire plot area received the equivalent of 20 tons/acre of dairy manure prior to being plowed to a depth of 6 during fall tillage. In the spring, a tractor mounted rotortiller was used to prepare the plots for planting. Superstar cantaloupes were directly seeded into the research plot area on May 23, Each plot was 5 x 15 and consisted of five hills with 36 in-row spacing. Granular fertilizers for the conventional treatment were broadcast across selected plots and incorporated into the soil prior to planting. The Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers were banded with a fertilizer knife that placed the products two inches below the soil surface and just to the side of the seed row. On June 13 th the same applicator was used to sidedress nitrogen into all the plots. These applications were placed 2 deep and 4-5 to the side of the plant row as vines were starting to run. Foliar fertilizer applications started with the initial fruit set on July 14 th. Treatments were reapplied every 7-10 days until September 5 th when the last application was made. A total of eight applications for each foliar treatment were made during the growing season. All applications were made with a backpack sprayer and hand boom equipped with flat fan nozzles. These fertilizer mixtures were diluted with water and applied at a total volume of 15 gallons per acre. Fungicides and insecticides were applied separately, but in a similar manner as needed through out the season. Cantaloupes were harvested continuously every 7-10 days starting on Aug. 17 th. Each melon was deemed mature when the tendril on the vine nearest the melon turned brown. Mature melons were harvested by hand and weighted individually until a final harvest on Sept 11 th. PTS in treatment #3 is Protriastim, a protein cell carrier with a tri-alcohol growth stimulant that boosts the crops ability to store energy for the photosynthetic process. Granular fertilizers were applied according to published guidelines from Michigan State University s Nutrient Recommendations for Vegetable Crops in Michigan. Ext Bulletin E2934, 2004 RESULTS:

25 Table C1. Fertility Programs for 2006 season Cantaloupe Trial Treatment / Products Rate (gal./a) Application 1 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ. + Sure-K + Micro qt 1.5" below seed High NRG-N 18 Sidedress 2 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ. + Sure-K + Micro qt 1.5" below seed High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Sure-K + Nutritional Foliar weekly foliar 3 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ. + Sure-K + Micro qt 1.5" below seed High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Sure-K + Nutritional Foliar + PTS oz weekly foliar 4 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ. + Sure-K + Micro qt 1.5" below seed High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Experimental Foliar #1 3 Weekly Foliar # Broadcast # Broadcast 28% UAN 30 Sidedress Total cantaloupe yield for all Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer treatment were substantially greater than the Conventional fertilizer program, with 1.9 to 11.6 tons/acre increases (Table C2). The largest individual harvest for all treatments typically occurred at the second picking and all subsequent harvests typically exhibited lower yields. However, the basic Agro-Culture Liquid fertility program (Trt. 1) alone and with foliar treatments (Trt. 2) both exhibited relatively stable yield for all seven harvests. The average melon size was increased from the regular use of Sure-K and Nutritional foliar combinations (Trt. 2) compared to the conventional fertilizer program. Average melon size was increased as much as 1.5 lbs over the conventional program and 0.7 lb. over the Agro-Culture Liquid program (Trt 1). The use of PTS (Protriastim - Trt 3), promoted earliness and greater yields in the initial harvests of this trial. Average melon size was also increased compared to the conventional fertilizer program. Table C2. Effect of fertility programs on Cantaloupe yields by harvest date. Sum Final Total Average Harvest 1 Harvest 2 Harvest 3 Harvest 4-6 Harvest Yield Melon Size* Treatment Yield (tons / Acre) Lbs. 1 Plant/SD a 2 Plant/SD/ Foliar a 3 Plant/SD/ Foliar w/ PTS b 4 Plant/SD/Exp Foliar # b 5 Dry Program b *Values with different letters are significantly different according to Duncan s Multiple Range Test (P< 0.10)

26 Total cantaloupe yield was significantly increased and the average melon size was improved by 0.8 lbs/melon for the Experimental Foliar #1 compared to the conventional fertilizer program. Enhanced total yield came primarily from a greater number of melons harvested per plant, 15.6% more than observed for the conventional fertilizer program (data not shown). Additionally, the largest impact from this treatment program occurred early in the season. Approximately 25% of the total yield was picked in each of the first two harvests (Over 50% total yield by the second harvest). Still, yields from the following 5 harvests were comparable to the other foliar fertility program utilized in treatment 2. Conclusions: The Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs enhanced the total yield and average size of the cantaloupes. Foliar fertilizers had the greatest impact cantaloupe size and the yields from the initial harvests were promoted.

27 Experiment: Cantaloupe Fertility Programs 2 year summary Year: 2005 &2006 (05-31, ) Date of Planting/Harvest: June 2 / Aug 17 Sept 7, 2005 May 23 / Aug 17 Sept 12, 2006 Plot Size: 5 ft x 15 ft, 3 reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 61 CEC ~ 6.3 K ~ 87 OM ~ 1.8% (3.5% K) Cantaloupe Fertility Program Yield Results North Central Research Station 2 year Average (2005 & 2006) Total Melons/A Total Wt. (tons/a) Average Size (lb./melon) Avg Avg Avg. Fertilizer Program Agro-Culture Liquid ACLF & Foliar Conventional Fert LSD* (P<0.20) *LSD is for yield parameters by year (within each column) only. The objective for these trials was to compare the yield and quality of cantaloupe produced with various Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs and conventional fertilizer products. Liquid Fertilizer was placed in a band next to the seed at planting. Sidedress was placed in a band next the row and two inches below the surface. Dry fertilizer was broadcast and incorporated before planting. Foliar applications were made with a backpack sprayer equipped with flat-fan nozzles and application volume of 15 gallons per acre. Hand harvest of the plots began in mid-august and continued thru early September. As fruit ripened melons were counted and weighed individually to calculate yield. Results: All Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs increased the number of melons and total Table C1. Fertility Programs for 2005 & 2006 season Cantaloupe Trials. Treatment / Products Rate (gal./a) Application 1 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ. + Sure-K + Micro qt 1.5" below seed High NRG-N 18 Sidedress 2 High NRG-N + Pro-Germ. + Sure-K + Micro qt 1.5" below seed High NRG-N 18 Sidedress Sure-K + Nutritional Foliar weekly foliar # Broadcast # Broadcast 28% UAN 30 Sidedress cantaloupe yield over the conventional fertilizer program. Highest yielding program was the Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers program with in season foliar applications. The two year average for total yield was 2.6 tons/a higher and 0.4 lb./melon heavier than the conventional fertility program. The addition of foliar applications to the Agro- Culture Liquid Fertilizer soil program did not produces more melons per acre; however, the melons receiving foliar treatments were larger and harvested earlier in the season, therefore total tons/acre and crop value were both increased.

28 Conclusions: Cantaloupes grown with the Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer programs exhibited higher melon set and total yield per acre. Melon size was also promoted with the regular foliar applications of Sure K and Nutritional Foliar.

29 Experiment1: Cantaloupe Foliar Year (Experiment Number): 2007 (07-106) Date of Planting/Harvest: May 15, 2007 / August, 2007 Hybrid/Variety: Athena Plot Size (replications): 5 x 15, 3 reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 39 CEC ~ 5.5 K ~ 80 OM ~ 1.6% (3.5% K) Cantaloupes are a summer favorite for many people. The modern ability to store and ship produce has essentially made this and many other melons available 12 months of the year in most locations. The purpose for this trial was to compare the yield and quality of cantaloupe produced with various Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer soil and foliar fertility programs. Comparisons with conventional fertilizer products were also made. The entire plot area was soybeans in the season prior to this trial. The stubble was lightly worked in the spring with a field cultivator to prepare for establishment of the plots. A yield goal of 12 tons/acre along with Michigan State University s Vegetable Fertility Guide (E2934) was used as the basis for fertility levels. The dry fertilizers were broadcast then lightly incorporated, liquid fertilizer materials were banded on the soil surface in the center of selected plot areas and then all plots were formed into beds (4 tall x 24 wide) with plastic mulch covering the center of each 5 wide plot. Forming the bed placed the liquid fertilizers approximately 3-4 below the top of this bed. On May 15, 2007, after ripping small holes into the plastic mulch, Athena cantaloupes were directly seeded 1.5 deep with 36 in-row spacing. Each plot area was 15 long and consisted of five hills of cantaloupe. Fungicides and insecticides were applied as necessary through out the growing season with an air-blast backpack sprayer operated at 10 gallons per acre, ensuring through coverage by the selected pesticides. Table CF1. Fertility Programs for 2007 season Cantaloupe Trial Treatment (Yield goal = 12 tons/a) Rate/A (gal/a) Method of Application Mn+Zn 28% UAN #, 5#, 4# PPI Band 2 HN + PG + SK + Micro Mn 32, 6.4, 10.9, 2.3 qt, 1 pt Band 3 HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn Sure-K, Nutritional Foliar 32, 6.4, 10.9, 2.3 qt, 1 pt 2+1 Band Foliar 4 HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn Sure-K + G07 32, 6.4, qt, 1 pt qt Band Foliar 5 HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn Sure-K + G07 + Premium Ca 32, 6.4, 10.9, 2.3 qt, 1 pt 2+1qt + 1qt Band Foliar 6 HN + PG +SK + Micro 500 +Mn Sure-K + Green and Grow Write Pro. 32, 6.4, 10.9, 2.3 qt, 1 pt qt Band Foliar 7 HN + PG +SK + Micro 500 +Mn Sure-K + Woody Plants & Trees 32, 6.4, 10.9, 2.3 qt, 1 pt qt Band Foliar SK = Sure-K, PG=Pro-Germinator, HN = High HRG-N, G07 = Experimental Foliar

30 Starting on Aug. 6 th cantaloupes were harvested every 2-3 days for one month. Each melon was deemed mature when the tendril on the vine nearest the melon turned brown. Melons were harvested by hand and weighted until the final harvest on Sept 4 th. Some melons were damaged by mice or other small animals in the plot area. However, the locations for the damaged melons appeared to be random and therefore damaged melons were not included in any harvest evaluations. RESULTS: Total cantaloupe yield for all Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer treatments were similar or greater than the conventional fertilizer program (Chart CF1). The use of ACLF products vs. conventional fertilizers to meet the basic nutrient needs of the cantaloupe showed only a slight, 0.5 tons/acre, advantage for the basic ACLF program (Trt#2). Regular applications of ACLF foliar fertilizers resulted in modest to highly significant yield increases (0.1 to 4.4 tons/acre) above the base ACLF soil only program (Trt #2). Two foliar fertilizer treatments had total yields noticeably greater than all others, Trt #4 (Experimental 1 qt/a.) and Treatment #7 (Woody Plants and 2qts/A). The regular use of 1 qt/a resulted in two additional tons of cantaloupe per acre at the end of the season vs. ACLF soil only applications. When Woody Plants and Trees was used regularly at 2qt/A. the total yield was 4.9 tons per acre above the base conventional fertility program. With both of these foliar programs, there was also a shift toward earlier maturity (Chart CF2). Yield (Tons/Acre) Conventional ACLF ACLF w/ SK, NF, Ca Total Cantaloupe Yield 20.0 ACLF w/ G07@1qt ACLF w/ G07+ Ca ACLF w/ GGWP@2qt Foliar Treatment comparisons 22.4 ACLF w/ WPT@2qt Chart CF1. Effect of soil and foliar fertility programs on the total yield of fresh market cantaloupe. Yield for the basic ACLF soil only program was somewhat uniformly spaced out over the entire month in which yields were collected. However, approximately 60 + % of all melons produced by most other treatments were harvested within 8 days of the initial harvest (Chart CF2). The enhanced maturity offered by the foliar fertilizer applications would have been most advantageous to commercial farms with limited harvests. Still, the uniformity of yield over many weeks for the basic ACLF soil only program would have benefited a road-side stand or truck

31 garden. Still, this is only one year s research and it is not possible to say if these effects will be consistent across multiple seasons. Therefore, most treatments in this trial will be repeated in Full season yields for all cantaloupe treatment programs were well above expectations and well beyond the fertilizer application rates utilized for this trial. The decline in harvestable melons after the fourth harvest may be due in part to limited fertility as well as damage from foot traffic during harvest and late season foliar applications th 10th 9th 8th 7th 6th 5th 4th 3rd 2nd 1st Yield (Tons/Acre) Potash & Conv. Liquids ACLF ACLF w/ SK, NF, Ca ACLF w/ G07@1qt ACLF w/ G07+ Ca ACLF w/ GGWP@2qt Foliar Treatment comparisons ACLF w/ WPT@2qt Chart CF2. Effect of various fertility programs on Fresh Market Cantaloupe yields by harvest (2-3 day interval between harvests). Cantaloupe plots at initial fruit set.

32 Experiment: Cantaloupe Drip Irrigation Applications Year (Experiment Number): 2007 (07-104) Date of Planting/Harvest: May 15, 2007 / August, 2007 Hybrid: Athena Plot Size (replications): 5 x 15, 3 reps Soil Test Levels (ppm) ph ~ 7.3 P1 ~ 39 CEC ~ 5.5 K ~ 80 OM ~ 1.6% (3.5% K) Cantaloupes are a commodity that is commonly grown in dry areas that require irrigation. Therefore, many growers have begun to utilize the drip tape as a means to spoon-feed fertilizer to the plants during the growing season. However, the fertilizers used must not react with the irrigation water to produce solids or have impurities that could plug the drip irrigation lines. The main objective for this trial was to compare the yield and quality of cantaloupe produced with various forms of ACLF nitrogen applied via drip irrigation and various pre-plant fertility programs. Comparisons with conventional fertilizer products were also made. The entire plot area was soybeans in the season prior to this trial. The stubble was lightly worked in the spring with a field cultivator to prepare for establishment of the plots. A yield goal of 10 tons/acre along with Michigan State University s Vegetable Fertility Guide (E2934) was used as the basis for fertility levels. The dry fertilizers were broadcast then lightly incorporated, liquid fertilizer materials were banded on the soil surface in the center of selected plot areas and then all plots were formed into beds (4 tall x 24 wide) with plastic mulch covering the center of each plot. Forming the bed placed the liquid fertilizers approximately 3-4 below the top-center of this bed. Each plot area was 5 x 15 and consisted of five hills of cantaloupe. On May 15, 2007, after ripping small holes into the plastic mulch, Athena cantaloupes were directly seeded 1.5 deep with 36 in-row spacing. Fertilizer injections began as the plants started to produce runners and continued through the entire harvest period. Table CD1. Drip Irrigation Fertility Programs for 2007 season Cantaloupe Trial Treatment (Yield goal = 10 tons/acre) Rate/A (gal/a) Method of Application 1 Untreated Control 0 na Mn + Zn 235#, 180#, 5#, 4# PPI 2 28% UAN 4.2 Drip Mn + Zn #, 5#, 4#, 21.4 PPI/band 3 28% UAN 4.5 Drip HN + PG + SK + Micro Mn-F 5, 6.4, 10.9, 2.3 qt, 1 pt Band 4 High NRG-NR 4 Drip SK = Sure-K, PG=Pro-Germinator, HN = High HRG-N, enh = enhance, Mn-F = Manganese Flavanol. Fungicides and insecticides were applied as necessary through out the growing season with an air-blast backpack sprayer operated at 10 gallons per acre, ensuring through coverage by these pesticides.

33 Starting on Aug. 6 th cantaloupes were harvested every 2-3 days for one month. Each melon was deemed mature when the tendril on the vine nearest the melon turned brown. Melons were harvested by hand and weighted until the final harvest on Sept 4 th. Some melons were damaged by mice or other small animals in the plot area. Locations for the damaged melons appeared to be random and therefore, damaged melons were not included in any harvest evaluations. However, because of the small plot size it is possible that this damage changed the true yield values for the treatments. RESULTS: Over 65% to as high as 84% of all cantaloupe produced in this trial were harvested in the first 4 harvests / 8 day interval (Chart CD1) of this trial. The yield goal of 10 tons per acre was achieved or exceeded by the fourth harvest as well. Seven additional harvests over the next three week period added only minor percentages of the total yield per harvest (Chart CD2). However, the total yields for treatments #2 & #4 were double the yield goal for these melons due to the extended harvest interval. Yields from the use of conventional dry fertilizer (potash & ) with 28% UAN via the drip irrigation system (Trt. #2) was similar to where liquid applied in a band was substituted for (Trt. #3) for the first four harvests, but total yields were lower for the plots full season (Chart CD2). The ACLF fertility program used in this trial resulted in a 21% increase over the unfertilized control treatment after only 4 harvests and 31.5% greater over the total season, 11 harvests. Yield (Tons/Acre) st 2nd 3rd 4th Chart CD1. Cantaloupe yield by treatment from the first four hand harvests.

34 25 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 20 Yield (Tons/Acre) Chart CD2. Full season yield by harvest for Cantaloupe when most of the Nitrogen was applied via drip irrigation.

35 Experiment : Foliar applications of fertilizer for optimizing cantaloupe production. Impact of conventional fertilizers and ACLF Base programs on cantaloupe yields. Planted: Plot Size: Fertigation: 5 x 30 none Variety: Replications: Foliar: Aphrodite 3 Multiple Population: Harvested: 2900 Multiple Soil Test Values (ppm):: ph CEC % OM P1 K S % K % Mg % Ca % H 72.8 % Na Zn Mn Objectives: To demonstrate the value of various foliar fertilizer products and programs on cantaloupe yields and/or maturity. Compare base fertility programs between conventional materials and ACLF Products on cantaloupe yields. B 0.4 Conclusions: The ACLF Base program (Trt. 2) produced slightly greater yields than the conventional program (Trt. 1) for most harvests resulting in a 1.6 ton per acre increasee for the season. Also, the average melon size among those harvested from the ACLF Base treatment was 1.0 lb per melon heavier than for the conventional fertility program. Therefore, only a portion of the yield difference was due to fruit set. The first three harvests as welll as total seasons yield were influenced by the foliar fertility programs used in this trial. Foliar use of ferti Rain harvests as compared to most other treatment programs. resulted in the highest yield in this trial, showing the largest impact on the odd numbered The ACLF Base treatment was used behind all foliar fertility treatments. While some foliar programs didn t increase the total yield produced, they did appear to impact yield distribution over the one month harvest period. These changes can be valuable to some producers withoutt increasing yields. o Use of Plant Products (Trt. 7) as a foliar resulted in a relatively uniform level of cantaloupe production on each harvest date. This type of production could be favorable for a roadside stand that prefers a constant supply over a couple large harvests. (see next page) *See Product Descriptions in the introduction for more information on ACLF products used. Page 11 BCL NRG

36 o Applying Liberate Ca (Trt. 8) to the cantaloupe resulted in a high percentage of the total yield from the first three harvests. Commercially, this could be very favorable if limiting the number harvests are of value. Still, repeatability of this first year treatment is uncertain. The experiment foliar, G 07 (Trt. 4), and PTS applied weekly (Trt. 6) each had positive impacts on the total cantaloupe yield with a slightly different distribution of the yield over the harvest period. Fewer applications for the G 07 program could give it the advantage in some production systems. Table W1. Foliar fertility treatment programs to promote cantaloupe yields and/or quality, Conventional and ACLF based fertility comparisons in cantaloupe. Treatment Rate/A (gal/a) Method of Application Mn+Zn+B 382#, 5#, 4#, 1# Broadcast 1 28% UAN Band 2 HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn , 4 qt, 2 pt Band HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn , 4 qt, 2 pt Band 3 Ferti-Rain (F-07) 3 Foliar -14D HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn , 4 qt, 2 pt Band 4 G07 2 qt Foliar -14D HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn , 4 qt, 2 pt Band 5 PTS+ Sure-K 2 oz + 2 Foliar -14D HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn , 4 qt, 2 pt Band 6 PTS+ Sure-K 2 oz +1 Foliar -7D HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn , 4 qt, 2 pt Band 7 Plant Products lbs. Foliar -14D HN + PG + SK + Micro 500+ Mn , 4 qt, 2 pt Band 8 Liberate Ca + Sure-K 1 qt + 2 Foliar -14D The plots were established on May 22 by banding liquid fertilizers down the center and/or broadcasting dry fertilizers over each plot area. The center 2 ft of each 5 ft wide plot was then covered with plastic mulch. Holes were opened in the plastic mulch every 3 ft and 3 4 seeds were placed about 1 into the soil and covered for each hole. A total of 10 hills per plot were planted. During the course of the growing season, irrigation, fungicides and insecticides were applied uniformly to all plots as necessary. Foliar applications were started as the vines began to bloom in mid June and were repeated regularly according to the schedule shown in the table above until after the fourth harvest. Each foliar treatment was applied to the center four ft. of each plot to minimize treating plants from the neighboring plots. However, by late season the vines from many treatments extended into neighboring plots. For each harvest, the ripe melons were traced back to their home plots so they could be accurately collected, counted and weighted for determining yields. Responsible Nutrient Management Trt. Total Yield Nutr. App NUE # 1. Conventional Fert ACLF Base F G PTS(14 day) PTS(7 day) PP Lib Ca # Nutrient Use Efficiency - (Lb. Yield/ Total Lb Nutrients applied) *See Product Descriptions in the introduction for more information on ACLF products used. Page 12 BCL NRG