Effect of the geometric transformation of the fruit of the melon (Cucumis melo L) on its quality under soilless cultivation

In recent years the consumption of gourmet products has been increasing by nearly 10% per year; these products are increasingly appreciated by consumers. This tendency is especially notable in the European and North American markets. In these circumstances, the development of products with added value is more important in areas with limited availability of soils and water such as arid zones, in order to improve the profits. The objective of this study was to obtain square fruits of mselon (Cucumis melo L.), evaluating the effects produced by transforming its geometry on quality parameters in the varieties Amarillo Oro and DRG 2099. The crops were grown in soilless culture, using Perlite as substrate. The treatments were T0, fruits without mold and T1, fruits with mold. The quality parameters evaluated were total soluble salts, fruit firmness, titratable acidity and pH. The results showed no significant differences in fruit quality between treatments. In terms of agronomic management, we developed a technique based on determinant periods in fruit formation, concluding that it is possible to transform the geometry of melon fruits (Cucumis melo L.) without affecting their quality.