Abstract: The invention relates to a diploid watermelon having fruit with approximately ? lower sugar content than common watermelons found in the market place, and plant characteristics favorable for use as a pollenizer for commercial production of seedless watermelons. In addition to reduced sugar, fruit characteristics of the invention include a tough rind, firm flesh, distinct rind color, and small fruit. The watermelon plant of the invention has the characteristics of extended flowering duration, thin leaves, long sprawling vines, and resistance to Fusarium Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum race 1. The invention combining the above mentioned fruit and plant characteristics can serve the dual purpose of producing reduced sugar watermelon fruit, and pollinating seedless watermelons. This will, in effect, produce reduced sugar watermelons which are beneficial for consumers with type 2 diabetes, as a byproduct of commercial seedless watermelon production making the product more economically feasible.

Abstract: The invention relates to a diploid watermelon having fruit with approximately ? lower sugar content than common watermelons found in the market place, and plant characteristics favorable for use as a pollenizer for commercial production of seedless watermelons. In addition to reduced sugar, fruit characteristics of the invention include a tough rind, firm flesh, distinct rind color, and small fruit. The watermelon plant of the invention has the characteristics of extended flowering duration, thin leaves, long sprawling vines, and resistance to Fusarium Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum race 1. The invention combining the above mentioned fruit and plant characteristics can serve the dual purpose of producing reduced sugar watermelon fruit, and pollinating seedless watermelons. This will, in effect, produce reduced sugar watermelons which are beneficial for consumers with type 2 diabetes, as a byproduct of commercial seedless watermelon production making the product more economically feasible.