Selection of Melon Genotypes with Resistance to Fusarium Wilt and Monosporascus Root Rot for Rootstocks

A panel of 65 melon germplasm was used to screen for resistance to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melonis (Fom) and Monosporascus cannonballus. The screening test revealed 35 accessions that are highly resistant to Fom race 1 and 11 accessions with high resistance to M. cannonballus. A total of four accessions, ‘K134068’, ‘K133069’, ‘Wondae’ and ‘PI 414723’, showing resistance to both pathogens were selected as candidates for melon rootstock. Yield and quality of fruits harvested from ‘Earl s elite’ (Muskmelon, Reticulatus Group) grafted onto the selected melon rootstocks were found comparable to or better than those of non-grafted melons. Nearly negligible incidence of fruit fermentation was observed when ‘Homerunstar’ (Honeydew type, Inodorus Group) was grafted with the selected melon rootstocks, unlike when it was grafted onto ’Shintozwa’ (Cucurbita spp.) rootstock. The selected melon accessions with resistance to Fusarium wilt and Monosporascus root rot are considered to be potential and valuable genetic resources for breeding program of melon.