The effects of different nitrogen concentrations (80; 140; 200 and 300 mg L-1) and fruit number per plant (2; 3; 4 and free setting), were investigated on net melon production (Cucumis melo var. reticulatus, Bonus nº 2 hybrid). The experiment was carried out in Jaboticabal, São Paulo State, Brazil, in NFT hydroponic system, from June to November, 2001. The experimental design was of randomized split plots, replicated six times. At 80 days after seedling transplant 2; 3; 4 and 5.1 fruits per plant were found. However, at harvest there were 2; 2.9; 3.0 and 3.4 fruits per plant, relative to 2; 3; 4 and free setting per plant treatment. This observed fruit reduction was attributed to fruit abortion. With the increase of nitrogen concentrations a reduction in first, second and third fruit weight was found. Plants with fewer fruits, produced higher average fruit weight and lower yield per plant. The highest yield per plant (2,474 g/plant) was obtained with 80 mg L-1 of nitrogen.
Cucumis melo var. reticulatus; plant nutrition; growth without soil; hydropony; yield
