Seeds for watermelon Lusitana F1 super early Crimson Sweet type Rijk Zwaan

Extra early watermelon with 12–13% Brix – hit the market first.

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Lusitana F1
Watermelon Lusitana F1 (LUSITANA RZ F1) is an extra early Crimson hybrid from Rijk Zwaan with a growing cycle of just 55–58 days from transplanting. Fruits are crunchy, deep red, with 12–13% Brix and reach 8–10 kg (up to 11 kg grafted). The firm rind ensures reliable transport, and uniform fruit size simplifies commercial sales. Available at theseeds.shop alongside recommended rootstocks Cobalt RZ F1 and Nickel RZ F1.
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Fruit Appearance

Lusitana F1 produces fruits with an attractive dark green striped rind, classic of the Crimson type. Fruits are uniform in size and shape, with concentrated and simultaneous ripening – a key commercial advantage. The rind is firm and tough, ensuring good shelf life and resistance to transport damage. The flesh is crunchy and firm with a deep red colour and 12–13% Brix sugar content. Flavour is outstanding with a distinct, rich aroma. Fruits reach 8–10 kg under standard conditions and up to 9–11 kg when grafted.

Plant and Yield

LUSITANA RZ F1 is an extra early hybrid with a growing cycle of approximately 55–58 days from transplanting. The plant develops a strong root system and good leaf cover that naturally protects the fruits from sunscald. Suitable for all production systems. Recommended plant density is 500 plants/dka without rootstock and 300–350 plants/dka when grafted. The hybrid delivers high and stable yield potential with concentrated ripening. Rijk Zwaan recommends Cobalt RZ F1 and Nickel RZ F1 as compatible rootstocks. Both rootstocks and the full watermelon range are available at theseeds.shop.

Characteristics
Тип Супер Ранна
Вегетация (дни) 55–58 дни
Размер 8–11 кг, Светло зелена, Тъмни ивици
Отглеждане Оранжерии / Открито
Brix level Супер Сладка, 12–13% (Brix)
Shape Овална
Устойчивости Без риск
Eating quality Плътни, Много сладки, Хрупкави
Предназначение Свеж пазар
Дебелина на кората Здрава, Твърда, Средно дебела
Тип хибрид Кримсон
Селекция / марка Rijk Zwan / Нидерландия

What is the recommended plant density and how should seeds be sown?

Without rootstock, plant 500 plants/dka; with rootstock, use 300–350 plants/dka. Standard watermelon spacing is 180–200 cm between rows and 80–100 cm within the row, with a seeding rate of 0.15–0.25 kg/dka at 20–25 seeds/g. Sown at a depth of 2–3 cm.

What temperature is needed for watermelon seed germination?

The optimal germination temperature for watermelons is 20°C. At lower temperatures germination slows considerably and the risk of seed rot increases. Planting should only proceed once soil temperatures are consistently warm and stable.

How early do the fruits ripen and what yield can I expect?

Lusitana F1 is an extra early hybrid with a growing cycle of just 55–58 days from transplanting – among the shortest in its category. Ripening is concentrated and simultaneous, which simplifies harvesting in one or two passes. Fruits reach 8–10 kg without rootstock and up to 11 kg when grafted, with high and stable overall yield.

Why choose Lusitana F1 – what problem does it solve?

Lusitana F1 solves three grower challenges at once: early market entry, fruit quality, and commercial performance. The extra early cycle of 55–58 days allows growers to reach the market ahead of competitors. The 12–13% Brix, crunchy flesh, and tough rind deliver excellent eating quality with minimal transport losses. Uniform fruits simplify grading and bulk sales.

What risks should I be aware of when growing this hybrid?

The main risks are soil-borne pathogens and fusarium wilt, especially under intensive monoculture conditions. Rijk Zwaan recommends Cobalt RZ F1 or Nickel RZ F1 rootstocks precisely to address this, providing protection and supporting higher yields. Avoid planting in cold or waterlogged soil to prevent root rot and germination failure.