Inter- and Between-row Spacing on Yield and Quality of a Pumpkin Interspecific Hybrid

摘要

Previous research indicated that the pumpkin [Cucurbita moschata L.) interspecific hybrid 'M011 x P25' had the most positive and negative heterosis for plant yield and plant length, respectively. Due to its negative heterosis for plant length it is possible to culture this plant at a higher plant density. Growers have two options when increasing plant populations per unit area; either within-row or between-row spacing can be decreased. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of altering plant population by varying between-row and in-row spacing on yield of pumpkin interspecific hybrid 'M011 x P25' to increase yield by reducing vegetative growth and increasing reproductive. The interspecific hybrid 'MOI1 x P25' was established at 1, 2, or 3 m between rows and 0.5, 0.75, or 1 m within rows. There were differences between inter- and between-row distances and their interaction on all characteristics except caro-tenoids content. Increasing interspecific hybrid 'M011 x P25' plant population by varying both between-row and in-row spacing increased yield; the highest yield (98.4 t-ha-1) was with a spacing of 1 x 0.5 m.