The Bretona F1 watermelon is an early hybrid of the Crimson Sweet type, developed by the seed company Rijk Zwaan. The vegetation period ranges from 65 to 69 days, allowing for harvest within relatively short timeframes. The plant features a robust and well-developed leaf canopy, as well as a branched root system, providing resistance to adverse weather conditions such as cold snaps, heavy rains, pests, and diseases. This hybrid is suitable for cultivation both in open ground and under temporary coverings, showing tolerance to soil quality and watering regimes. The fruits of the Bretona watermelon have an oval-shaped, elongated form, are uniform, and highly transportable. The average fruit weight ranges from 8 to 12 kg, with instances of fruits exceeding 12 kg. The rind is glossy, dark green with characteristic green stripes, giving the fruits an attractive appearance. The flesh is a deep red, crisp and juicy, with small dark seeds that are relatively rare. The flavor is distinctly sweet, with high sugar content (Brix level of 12.5–13%), making it especially pleasant for fresh consumption. Each vine produces 1–2 fruits, contributing to uniform development and high-quality yield. The recommended planting density is 6,000–8,000 plants per hectare when using drip irrigation. When grafted onto Pelops or Cobalt rootstocks, the optimal planting density reduces to 3,500–5,000 plants per hectare. Due to its characteristics and resilience, the Bretona F1 watermelon is an excellent choice for farmers seeking an early, high-quality, and flavorful watermelon harvest for both commercial sale and consumption.
