Completely updated with new content and full-colour figures, the second edition of this successful book continues to provide comprehensive coverage relating to the production of cucurbits, including cucumber, gourd, muskmelon, pumpkin, squash and watermelon. These crops are grown worldwide and represent one of the largest and most important groups of horticultural food plants. This new edition of Cucurbits provides up-to-date, succinct and authoritative knowledge on this important family of crops, and reflects on significant advances in the areas of production, breeding and evolution. The book: Contains new chapters on abiotic stresses and cucurbits for health. Includes major updates in research on the evolution, movement and distribution of species. Explores new genetic resources and breeding advancements. Delivers current information on methods of improving yield (e.g. grafting) and the management of, and resistance to, pests and diseases. Has an updated list of the most recent taxonomic names. Representing a current and comprehensive guide to cucurbits, this book is highly illustrated and written in an accessible style. It is an essential resource for students, growers and researchers.