Editor: Cesar Escalante                                                                                                

Extension Plant Pathologist

escalac@purdue.edu

812-886-0198

July 24, 2026

MELCAST fungicide recommendations continue to indicate 14-day spray intervals across most Indiana locations for both cantaloupe and watermelon production areas. I suspect that disease pressure has remained relatively moderate, with EFI values showing little change during the past week.

However, gummy stem blight and anthracnose have been observed in several fields this week. Growers should continue scouting regularly and maintain both preventive and curative fungicide programs, selecting products based on their efficacy against the diseases present. Where symptoms are active, prioritize fungicides with strong curative activity and rotate among FRAC groups to reduce the risk of fungicide resistance.

Although weather conditions currently support extended spray intervals, fields with a history of disease, susceptible varieties, or recent disease detections may require closer attention to ensure adequate protection of foliage and fruit.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out.