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Concentrations of soluble solids (SSC) in fruits of Cucumis melo were postively correlated with the degree of soil cracking which occurred during dehydration and the percolation rate of water or CaSO₄ solution. Very low SSC occurred with sandy, non-cracking soils which permitted low percolation rates. Low SSC was also associated with soils with subsurface hardpans and with experimental barriers obstructing downward root growth.