Watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit that many people enjoy in the summer. But how do you know when a watermelon is ripe and ready to pick from your garden or buy from the market? Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect watermelon every time.
- Check the time. Watermelon usually takes 80 to 90 days to mature from planting to harvesting. You can look at the seed packet or the label on the plant to see how long it takes for your variety of watermelon to ripen. However, this is only an estimate and may vary depending on the weather, soil, and other factors.
- Look at the color. A ripe watermelon will have a dull and matte appearance on the rind, instead of a shiny and glossy one. The color of the rind should also be dark green, not light green or white. The most important color indicator is the field spot, which is the part of the watermelon that touches the ground. A ripe watermelon will have a yellow or cream-colored field spot, while an unripe one will have a white or greenish-white one.
- Feel the weight. A ripe watermelon will feel heavy for its size, because it is full of water and juice. You can compare two watermelons of similar size and shape and pick the heavier one. You can also lift the watermelon and feel if it is firm and solid, not soft or mushy.
- Tap the sound. A ripe watermelon will make a hollow and deep sound when you knock on it with your knuckles or flick it with your finger. An unripe one will make a high-pitched or dull sound. You can also hold the watermelon close to your ear and listen for the sound. This method may take some practice and experience, but it is one of the most reliable ways to test for ripeness.
- Check the tendril. A tendril is a curly stem that grows near the point where the watermelon attaches to the vine. A ripe watermelon will have a brown and dry tendril, while an unripe one will have a green and fresh one. However, this method may not work for all varieties of watermelon, especially those that have multiple tendrils near each fruit.
By following these tips, you can pick a watermelon that is ripe and ready to eat. Enjoy your sweet and juicy watermelon and share it with your friends and family!
