Ricura F1 Watermelon — a medium-early hybrid of the Pie de Sapo type, developed by the Dutch breeding company Rijk Zwaan. The ripening period is 65-70 days from transplanting, allowing for an early harvest in relatively short time. The plant is vigorous, with long and sturdy stems covered abundantly with dark green leaves. The hybrid is suitable for cultivation under greenhouse conditions, under plastic covers, and in open ground, showing resistance to cold, drought, high solar radiation, and other adverse factors. The recommended planting rate is 6 to 10 thousand plants per hectare. Ricura watermelon fruits are oval-shaped and weigh 1.5 to 2.5 kg. Their surface may be smooth or slightly ribbed, with dark green coloration. The flesh is ideally white, juicy, and uniform, with a small seed cavity. The watermelon is characterized by high sugar content — sugar content reaches 14-16%, providing it with a very sweet, nutritious, and aromatic flavor. Due to its taste qualities and flesh structure, the fruits are ideal for fresh market sales, export, and processing, including fruit slicing. The Ricura F1 hybrid has high and stable yield, as well as good resistance to major watermelon diseases such as fusarium, anthracnose, and spotted necrosis. Moderate resistance is noted against true powdery mildew. The fruits withstand prolonged transportation well and retain their qualities during long-term storage, making them profitable for commercial cultivation and sales. The hybrid is produced in the Netherlands, ensuring high seed quality and compliance with modern breeding standards.
