A study found that using controlled-release fertilizer on watermelon can significantly increase yield compared to regular fertilizer. The yield increased by around 22.61% or 10.81% when the same amount or 80% of the fertilizer was used. The controlled-release fertilizer was also more efficient, with productivity being 2.14 times higher than regular fertilizer. Additionally, using this type of fertilizer led to lower levels of certain nutrients in surface runoff, making it better for the environment. Overall, controlled-release fertilizer was shown to be cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and capable of boosting watermelon yield.