Placing the hives within the field rather than around it will double bee visitations. Cucumber beetles and pickleworm were the most destructive insects on muskmelon in Georgia in 1987. The critical weed-free period is 4 to 6 weeks after crop emergence. Smooth amaranth is particularly troublesome in Florida where it should be controlled for at least 3 weeks after crop emergence to avoid crop losses. See Weed Management for further information on scouting for weeds and management practices.
Melon cultivars with insect and disease resistance.