Evaluation of Nitrogen Effects on Yield and Quality of Watermelon {Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsumara & Nakai} Grown in the Coastal Regions of Kenya

Field experiment was conducted in KARI, Matuga, Kwale District in the coastal region of Kenya for two seasons to test the response of ‘sugar baby’ watermelon [Citrullus lanatus [Thumb]. Mansf.] to four levels of nitrogen (0,40,80 and 120 kgN/ha). The treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Nitrogen had positive significant effect on days to flowering, sex expression ratio, number of fruits/plant, fruit weights, firmness, rind thickness, total soluble solids. Application of 80 and 120 kgN/ha increased the fruit sugar content by 23% and 28% compared with zero application. The total fruit yield was highest at 120 kgN/ha and lowest at zero application. For improved growth yield and quality of water melons in the coastal region of Kenya 120 kgN/ha was recommended.