To evaluate the effect of different kinds and dripper spacings used in the melon cultivation, under two plant densities, a study was conducted at 'São João' farm, in the municipal district of Mossoró, RN, during the period of September to November, 1998. The experimental design was a completely randomized block in a split-plot layout, with three replications. The different dripper lines were installed in main plots (Katif 2.3 L h-1 at 0.40 and 0.60 m; Katif 3.75 L h-1 at 0.60 and 0.80 m; Hydrodrip II 2.3 L h-1 at 0.30 and 0.50 m; Netafim ST - 125 1.65 L h-1 at 0.50 m; Chapin 15 Mil 1.12 L h-1 at 0.30 m and Queen gil 1.42 L h-1 at 0.30 m) and, in subplots, the populations of 15,000 and 20,000 plants ha-1. The results showed that the stand percentage was higher in the dripper of smaller spacing and discharge and for higher plant density. The dripper lines Queen gil 1.42 L h-1 at 0.30 m and Hydrodrip II 2.3 L h-1 at 0.30 m presented higher melon yield although statistically differing only to Chapin 15 Mil 1.12 L h-1 at 0.30 m.
trickle irrigation; water management; Cucumis melo L
