Sweet melons start with prevention

In modern agriculture, plant protection is no longer just about treating pests and diseases after damage occurs. Proactive prevention and managing plant health from the very beginning of the growing season have become more important than ever.

In Binh Tien hamlet (Phu Giao commune, Ho Chi Minh City), Le Quyen's membrane-house melon farm is demonstrating the effectiveness of this production approach. The model not only provides stable income but also encourages farmers to adopt safer, more sustainable, and environmentally friendly cultivation practices.

Recognizing the high economic value of melons and their strong market demand, Le Quyen decisively invested in a membrane house system covering 13,000 square meters in 2014. This modern production model allows close control of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, light, irrigation, and nutrition. Most importantly, the membrane house limits insect intrusion, reduces the risk of pest and disease outbreaks, and lowers dependence on plant protection chemicals.

According to Quyen, producing high-quality melons requires plant protection measures from the outset rather than waiting for pests or diseases to appear. Before each crop cycle, her family cleans the membrane house, treats the growing medium, inspects the drip irrigation system, and selects healthy seedlings. During cultivation, the melon plants are monitored regularly to detect early signs of abnormalities on leaves, stems, roots, and fruits.

“Growing melons in a membrane house requires significant initial investment, but it allows much better pest and disease control. The most important thing is to implement preventive measures from the start, maintain proper ventilation, and manage irrigation and fertilization appropriately. Healthy plants are less susceptible to pests and diseases, and the products are safer, so consumers can buy our products with great confidence,” she said.

Currently, membrane house melons can be cultivated three to four times per year. With market prices ranging from VND 20,000 to 30,000 per kilogram, each crop on a 1,000-square-meter area can generate profits of VND 40 million to more than VND 60 million. Initial investment costs for a membrane house system are approximately VND 200 million per 1,000 square meters.

Under favorable production conditions, with yields of 3.5 - 4 tons per crop, growers can recover their investment in roughly one year. This model offers high returns and relatively low risk, particularly as agriculture faces increasing challenges from weather variability, pest outbreaks, and stricter market requirements.

A key feature of the model is the “prevention is key” motto. Plant protection does not rely solely on chemical pesticides but combines multiple measures, including field sanitation, humidity management, balanced fertilization, proper pruning, plant growth monitoring, and the correct use of agricultural inputs. This approach aligns with the principles of Integrated Plant Health Management (IPHM), helping protect soil, water resources, the environment, and the health of both producers and consumers.

The membrane house melon model is gradually expanding throughout Phu Giao. This commune currently has more than 70 hectares of melon cultivation, forming a concentrated production area that facilitates the widespread adoption of safe crop protection practices. As more households effectively prevent pests and diseases, apply plant protection products responsibly, and prioritize biological solutions, production efficiency continues to improve significantly.

According to Bui Thi Thuy Thom, Chairwoman of the Phu Giao Farmers’ Union, Le Quyen’s farm stands out as one of the examples in the movement promoting successful farming and agribusiness linked with scientific and technological applications. The union will continue to encourage members to change traditional production habits, focus on preventive crop protection, and use plant protection products correctly, at the appropriate dosage, and with proper pre-harvest intervals.

“In the coming period, the Farmers’ Union will continue supporting members in accessing safe production models and participating in technical training on crop care and pest management. We hope farmers will not only produce high-value crops but also ensure their products are safe, meet market demand, and contribute to protecting the rural environment,” Bui Thi Thuy Thom said.

$ 1 = VND 26,433 - Source: Vietcombank.