By Odilbek Odamboyev /“Xalq So‘zi”. Three new melon varieties have been developed at the Khorezm Scientific-Experimental Station of the Research Institute of Vegetable, Melon, and Potato Cultivation.

“Khorezm melons stand out from those grown in other regions due to their distinct flavor and taste,” said San’at Qalandarov, head of the Khorezm Scientific-Experimental Station. “One of the main reasons is the crop rotation and irrigation techniques used here. In Khorezm, melons are typically planted in fields along the Amu Darya river and ripen without direct irrigation, drawing moisture from underground. As a result, they develop an exceptionally sweet taste.” The new varieties — Iftikhor, Gandimyon, and Kumush — were developed in collaboration with researchers from the melon cultivation department at Urgench State University. All three are well suited to the soil and climate conditions of the region and are considered export-friendly.

The experimental station cultivates 127 types of melons across 40 hectares. To preserve these varieties, their seeds are added to the gene bank each year. The new varieties, the result of years of scientific research, will be showcased at the traditional international “Melon Festival” to be held in Khiva from August 8 to 10.