How To Pick A Watermelon

When it comes to summer fruits, there is nothing quite as refreshing as a juicy and sweet watermelon. The problem is, picking out a ripe and flavorful watermelon can be a bit of a gamble, and there is nothing worse than a watery or bland watermelon. To avoid disappointment, it is important to know how to pick a watermelon. In this article, we will outline some tips and tricks to help you choose the perfect watermelon every time.

1. Look for the field spot

The field spot is the area of the watermelon that was lying on the ground while it was growing. This spot should be slightly yellow or creamy in color instead of white or green. The more prominent and darker the field spot, the better the quality of the watermelon. This is because a watermelon that has been sitting on the vine for a long time develops that sweet and juicy flavor that we all love.

2. Check for uniform shape

A good watermelon should have a uniform, symmetrical shape. If you notice any bumps or irregularities in the shape, it could mean that the watermelon did not receive equal amounts of sun or nutrients during growth, which will affect its taste and texture.

3. Tap it

Tapping a watermelon can tell you a lot about its ripeness. A ripe watermelon will have a deep, hollow sound when tapped. It should sound like it’s filled with liquid. If the sound is high-pitched and shallow, the watermelon is likely underripe or overripe.

4. Check the weight

A ripe watermelon will feel heavy for its size. This is an indication that it is filled with juice and is ready to be consumed. If the watermelon feels too light, it is likely underripe, or it may have been picked too soon.

5. Look for a uniform skin color

A watermelon should have a uniform green color with a matte finish. If there are any shiny or white spots, it could mean that the watermelon is underripe or overripe, respectively. Additionally, a watermelon with an uneven green color could indicate that it has received uneven amounts of sunlight during growth.

6. Check for sugar spots

Sugar spots are small, dark patches that appear on the skin of a watermelon. These spots occur when the sugar in the watermelon is exposed to the sun during growth. A watermelon with sugar spots is likely to be sweet and juicy.

7. Check the stem

The stem of a watermelon is a good indicator of its ripeness. Look for a brown, dry stem that is slightly indented. If the stem is green or attached to a green patch of the skin, it is likely underripe.

8. Smell it

A ripe watermelon should have a subtle, sweet aroma. If you don’t smell anything, it could mean that the watermelon is underripe. If it has a strong, fermented smell, it is likely overripe.

In conclusion, picking a ripe and flavorful watermelon requires a bit of patience and attention to detail. By following the tips above, you can avoid choosing an underripe or overripe watermelon and ensure that every bite is juicy, sweet, and refreshing. Happy watermelon picking!