Aphid transmitted virus diseases have been identified by South Carolina melon growers as a major limiting production factor despite frequent applications of insecticides to control aphids. Several alternative methods for management of aphid transmitted watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) were evaluated in field experiments over three growing seasons, including cultural practices (e.g., cover crops and reflective mulch to reduce the visual attraction of crop plants to aphids), foliar application of a kaolin-clay based product to reduce aphid feeding and virus transmission, and use of an environmentally friendly insecticide to reduce secondary spread of virus by aphids. Results indicated that the establishment of a rye cover crop between plant beds and the use of reflective mulch could effectively reduce the incidence of virus disease.