Abstract: In order to screen thick-skin muskmelon（Cucumis melo） varieties for early spring plastic greenhouses cultivation in Yichang, seven varieties were selected to compare with Changjiangmikui, one muskmelon variety wildly cultivated. The biological, fruit quality and yield traits were examined in field for selecting the varieties with good comprehensive characters. The results showed that, Zhongtian No.8 showed high yield, suitable growth period, crisp taste and strong disease resistance, could be of great popularization variety. While the Qicaicuimi also could be popularized due to the peculiar fruit flesh and crisp taste.

Key words: early spring, thick-skin muskmelon（Cucumis melo）, comprehensive characters, Yichang city