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Jamul

Hello everyone,
How important is it that a seed be "tested"? It seems like even the most dedicated growers happily use seed from the previous seasons melons.Can a seed from a top melon really be a flop?

1/20/2012 11:46:29 AM

formerly RGG

I am sure opinions will vary widely. I am also sure some seeds are a lot more capable then others. And it certainly helps our clubs out a lot for growers to purchase "proven" seeds. But I am sure there are many "unproven" seeds out there that are just as good or better than many of the proven ones.But most of us have limited time and space. So the question becomes: do you want to put all your time, effort and money into growing a seed that may or may not be as good as the proven genetics ? We grow for sport and so to beat our competitors most of us want to eliminate the chance that the seeds we are growing might not be as genetically good as those of our competition. But if you cross two genetic lines that are already proven, I think it is highly likely the results will be more good genetics. I am certainly willing to take a chance on the cross of two "proven" melons. That said, if I am able to germinate my two 255 Mitchell seeds, they will get the best spot in my garden; as I am very certain what they are capable of.

1/20/2012 8:40:13 PM

formerly RGG

I think we are often looking for the next "superstar" seeds as the result of a cross we have made. If we are not willing to give our new crosses a fair chance, then we may never know what they are capable of.

1/20/2012 8:43:52 PM

Muddy Waters

I dont think its so much a flop that can happen. as it is a Great cross verses a good cross.

1/20/2012 9:10:19 PM

Jamul

O.K., Thanks, Dennis and Mark.

1/20/2012 11:08:49 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

This discussion has happened over & over when talkin about AG seeds...and both ends of the spectrum has been investigated numerous times. I do not know, nor do I believe that anyone has a 100% positive answer. There have also been many discussions about "Golden" seeds. The one, or a few seeds out of any given fruit, that outdo the rest of em. What I do believe is...AG's, CC's, Lopes, Maters, LG's, Field Pkns., etc...will continue to grow larger, as long as knowledge is shared!!! Kudo's to Ken D. !!! Peace, Wayne

1/21/2012 2:42:51 AM