MELCAST is a disease-forecasting program for muskmelon and watermelon growers in Sullivian, Knox, Daviess, Gibson and Jackson counties. At this time, growers outside of these areas and with crops other than muskmelon and watermelon can not participate in MELCAST.

For eligible growers, MELCAST offers a way to spray fungicides when they are most needed. The severity of plant diseases is highly dependent on the weather. MELCAST keeps tabs on the weather using satellites. Interested in saving money? MELCAST usually saves 2 to 3 fungicide sprays a year.

What diseases can MELCAST help with? Watermelon diseases include: anthracnose and gummy stem blight. Muskmelon diseases include: alternaria leaf blight.

How to use MELCAST? If you have ever changed the oil in your car by keeping track of mileage, you already know how to use MELCAST.

• Spray your protectant fungicide at vine touch as usual (protectant fungicides include Bravo, Echo, Terranil, Dithane, Manzate 200, Penncozeb, etc.).
• Call (800) 939-1604 toll free (Monday through Friday) to get the EFI (Environmental Favorability Index) value for the day you first sprayed. Or check the MELCAST newsletter on the web. Write the EFI value down in the book provided just like you would write down the mileage when you change your oil. (If you don't already have a book, call Dan Egel or Rick Latin).
• Spray fungicides again when the EFI values have increased by 20 for muskmelon or 35 for watermelon just as you would change your oil when the mileage has increased 4,000 miles. Write down the new EFI value when you have sprayed again.
• For example: You have just sprayed fungicide on your watermelon at vine touch. You call (800) 939-1604. The EFI value for the station nearest you is 14. You write down 14 in your MELCAST book under May 16. Every few days you call again. When the EFI value gets to 49 (14+35=49) you spray again. Write down the EFI value in your book when you spray again.
• What if it has been 2 weeks and your EFI values still have not reached 20 (muskmelon) or 35 (watermelon)? Go ahead and spray. Growers using MELCAST will spray fungicides every two weeks all season long unless MELCAST "says" to spray sooner.
• It isn't necessary to call everyday. Call more often if it has been wet. EFI values accumulate faster in wet weather.
• Powdery mildew is a disease that is better controlled with systemic fungicides. Therefore, MELCAST can not be used for powdery mildew control.
• Use MELCAST to help you decide when to spray. But use common sense. If it is Friday and your EFI values have almost reached your "spray value" go ahead and spray-especially if it looks like rain. Or if you have a severe disease problem, go back to spraying every 7 days.