Maristo F1 Watermelon — an ultra-early hybrid developed by the Dutch breeding company Enza Zaden. This variety is characterized by high early maturity: the first harvest can be collected as early as 58-60 days after transplanting seedlings. The plant is strong and robust, capable of quickly adapting to various climatic conditions and agronomic practices. The watermelon tolerates high temperatures and intense sunlight, while being resistant to fungal diseases such as fusarium and anthracnose. Thanks to these qualities, Maristo is suitable for cultivation both in open fields and under temporary coverings or in greenhouses with pollinators.
The fruits of Maristo watermelon have a round-oval shape and weigh from 9 to 11 kg, sometimes reaching 14-15 kg. The skin is of medium thickness (12-13 mm), dense, and not prone to cracking, colored dark green with contrasting light longitudinal stripes. The flesh is bright red, uniform, juicy, and elastic, without voids or fibers. High sugar content (Brix level 12-13%) ensures a rich sweet taste. The fruits easily detach from the stems, are easy to transport, and maintain their market quality during storage for several weeks.
For successful cultivation of Maristo watermelon, it is recommended to use well-fertilized neutral soils with sufficient light and no shading. The crop requires long daylight duration and temperature control. Planting scheme may be single-row or double-row, with spacing between plants from 40 to 70 cm in rows and between rows from 1.8 to 3.1 m. Thanks to its high resistance to sunburn and excellent transport qualities, Maristo watermelon is an excellent choice for obtaining early, high-quality produce suitable for fresh consumption and long-term marketing.
