Economical viabiality of the melon crop (Cucumis melo L.) in the Ilha Solteira region

Abstract

To verify the economical viability of the melon crop in Ilha Solteira, this experiment was carried out during 1991/1992 performing an economical analysis of the behavior of two melon varieties: Eldorado 300 and Valenciano Amarelo CAC, varying the fertilizer dressing: 2.5; 5.0 and 10.0 g/plant of N and K2O. The experimental area was irrigated with a drop irrigation system, of an initial investment of US$ 11,500.00 per hectare. In spite of the high initial investment, the crop showed to be highly profitable. The obtained results show that the all treatments present positive productivity, with a high net income of US$ 4,048.00 per hectare. The economic result caused by the difference between the gross income and the total cost, is directly influenced by the productivity levels and the prices of the product obtained in the market.