Melon

A World of Color and Taste

Melons come in many shapes, colors and sizes. They're rich in vitamins and minerals and serve as a tasty sweet treat that people love to enjoy.

Melons belong to the Cucurbitaceae family – just like cucumbers and pumpkins. Did you know that the ancient Egyptians also grew melons? History indicates that melons traveled from Africa and Asia to Europe during the Bronze Age.

BASF's Vegetable Seeds Business, featuring the Nunhems® portfolio, has been breeding melons for more than 30 years and is a leader in the melon seeds business. We have 150 varieties active globally, covering Cantaloup Sutured, Cantaloup Non-Sutured, Italian Cantaloup, Charentais, Galia, Ananas, Piel de Sapo & Honey Dew melons.

Melon breeding programs are currently active in Spain, France, and the United States of America. Our varieties are bred to fit the needs of  different parts of the world and their unique regional requirements. Attractive color, flesh texture, and consistent taste are important contributions to our breeding process. Smaller-sized melons are becoming increasingly more interesting to consumers as they consider convenient and sustainable eating options.

Our Melon Breeding team is closely connected to the entire value chain which enables us to launch innovative concepts that support the industry, increase grower profitability, and develop melons that people love.

Legend:
Disease Resistance Key:

Fom (0,1,2): Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melonis (Melon Fusarium wilt)
Px (1,2, 5): Podosphaera xanthii (ex. Sphaerotheca fuliginea) (Powdery mildew)
Ag: Aphis gossypii (Cotton aphid)