How to Beat Bacterial Fruit Blotch in Watermelon with Copper
Proactive copper‑based protection for healthier harvests
Why Bacterial Fruit Blotch (BFB) is a Serious Threat
The bacterium Bacterial Fruit Blotch (BFB) of watermelon – caused by Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli – poses a critical risk to watermelon growers. Early symptoms on seedlings appear as dark water‑soaking on cotyledons and leaves, followed by necrotic lesions with chlorotic halos. On older plants, fruit symptoms start as small water‑soaked areas that can rapidly expand, cover large portions of the rind, and even lead to full rot. For growers seeking stronger disease control strategies, using CS 2005 to control bacterial fruit blotch in watermelons provides reliable protection when applied early and consistently.
How BFB Spreads and Why Timing Matters
BFB can be introduced into fields via infested seed, infected transplants, volunteer watermelons, or wild cucurbit hosts.
Spread is accelerated in hot, humid conditions, especially during afternoon thunderstorms — common in spring production in Florida and later in the summer in states like Georgia, South Carolina, and Indiana.
Most susceptible fruit are 2–3 weeks old; mature fruit develop a wax layer that inhibits bacterial entry, though wounds still offer entry points.
Key takeaway: Start your copper spray program early — at first flower or even before — to intercept the pathogen before fruit set and effectively control bacterial fruit blotch in watermelons with CS 2005.
How CS 2005 Helps Watermelon Growers Control Bacterial Fruit Blotch
CS 2005 offers growers a scientifically backed method to control bacterial fruit blotch in watermelons. Its copper-based formulation targets the pathogen effectively while minimizing phytotoxicity to plants. By integrating CS 2005 into a consistent foliar program, growers can protect both young seedlings and developing fruit from severe BFB outbreaks.
Magna-Bon CS 2005 isn’t just another copper — it’s a proven, research-backed copper sulfate pentahydrate in-solution that gives watermelon growers the power to get ahead of disease pressure before it impacts yield or quality.
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Protects Against Copper-Resistant Strains – Delivers systemic, reliable disease control where traditional products fall short.
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Sustainable & Efficient – Uses less than 1/8 lb. of metallic copper per acre, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing performance.
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OMRI-Listed for Organic Use – Certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and approved for organic production systems.
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Field-Tested Results – University-proven to deliver over 99% control of Downy Mildew, helping protect yield potential and profit.
This combination of research-backed efficacy, sustainable performance, and proven results makes CS 2005 an ideal choice to control bacterial fruit blotch in watermelons, giving growers confidence and reliable protection throughout the growing season.
Bacterial Fruit Blotch is a persistent threat for watermelon growers, but it can be effectively managed. To protect your crop and maximize production, learn how to control bacterial fruit blotch in watermelons with CS 2005. Early and consistent application ensures healthier fruit, higher yields, and peace of mind throughout the growing season.
Ready to protect your watermelon crop from bacterial fruit blotch?
If you’re serious about reducing BFB risk and maximizing yield potential, contact the Magna‑Bon sales team today.