Evaluation of Cantaloupe and Cotton Intercropping to Determine Economic Feasibility and Growth Compatibility

Field research evaluations studies are being conducted to determine the economic feasibility and the growth compatibility of intercropping cantaloupe and cotton. In 2010 in Tift County, two commercial fields were intercropped with cantaloupe and cotton. The cantaloupe plants were transplanted on April 27 on 80 inch beds with 8 rows planted between drive middles. Cotton was planted on May 18 on 36” rows with 16 rows between the drive middles. During the cantaloupe production growing season the field was managed for cantaloupe production, after the conclusion of the last cantaloupe harvest the field was managed for cotton production. Fields were monitored for growth challenges, nematode comparisons, insect, and weed management. Cantaloupe yields were comparable to the farmer’s average yields of cantaloupe only fields. Cotton yield and grade information will be documented at harvest. Current visual appraisal of potential cotton yield is good to excellent.