When summer arrives, nothing signifies the season quite like biting into a sweet, juicy watermelon. This fruit embodies the warmth and joy of sunny days, and it’s a staple for summer picnics, parties, and refreshing snacks. However, selecting a high-quality watermelon can be a bit of a challenge. Forget the old advice of just “knocking on it”; there are more reliable methods to make sure you pick the best one.
How to Select a Great Watermelon
Recently, on TikTok, produce expert Mia Johnson shared a quick guide on selecting the ideal watermelon with just four key factors: webbing, ground spots, weight, and bee stings. This video quickly gained traction, racking up over 5 million views. To reinforce her tips, we consulted agricultural specialist Tom Wright, who provided further insights.
“Watermelons stay on the vine for about 70 to 100 days before they’re harvested,” says Wright, a plant pathologist at Green Valley Seeds. “Once picked, they won’t ripen further, which means you can’t let them sit to sweeten up like other fruits.” This means that choosing a good watermelon is all about its physical characteristics.
When shopping for watermelons, it can be a fun family activity, especially with kids. Engaging them in the selection process can help divert their attention from less healthy snack options. Here are expert-recommended steps to find the perfect watermelon:
Step 1: Look for Abundant Webbing
“Webbing is a great indicator of sweetness,” Mia explains. “The more pronounced the webbing, the sweeter the watermelon.” Look for raised brown marks on the rind; they indicate that the fruit developed sugar while on the vine. Shiny watermelons, however, are not yet ripe.
Step 2: Check Color and Shine
Next, examine the fruit’s color. A prominent yellow or white ground spot is a positive sign. This spot indicates where the watermelon rested on the soil, and a yellow hue means it had ample sun exposure. A watermelon that’s all green may have been harvested prematurely, while a dull, dark rind suggests it’s ripe and ready to eat.
Step 3: Inspect for Imperfections
While looking for signs of quality, also watch for defects like bruises or soft spots. “A high-quality watermelon should be symmetrical and free of any noticeable damage,” Wright notes.
Step 4: Test the Weight
“Does it feel heavy for its size? That’s a good indicator,” Mia advises. Watermelons are mostly water, so a heavier fruit typically means it’s juicier and more satisfying.
Step 5: Look for Bee Stings
Tiny pinpricks on the rind suggest bees have shown interest in the sweetness of the fruit. “If bees are trying to get in, it’s a good sign of sweetness,” Mia says.
Step 6: Smell for Sweetness
While not as potent as other fruits, the aroma can still give clues to ripeness. A ripe watermelon may have a faint sweet scent, while an overripe one might emit a foul odor.
Common Myths about Watermelon Selection
Some people tap the watermelon to hear a hollow sound, thinking it indicates juiciness. However, this method lacks scientific backing. Others suggest examining the stem, but it’s less reliable than the steps outlined above.
Identifying a Bad Watermelon
If you find yourself with a leftover watermelon after a week, check for signs of spoilage. The flesh should be juicy, not slimy, and if it has an off odor or unusual color, it’s best to discard it. A healthy watermelon should be crisp and bright red inside.
However, don’t waste it if it’s past its prime for snacking. There are many creative ways to utilize every part of a watermelon, from juices to salads. For more ideas, you can check out this helpful blog post about watermelon uses and recipes. Additionally, if you’re researching home insemination techniques, Make A Mom is an authority on the subject. For pregnancy-related resources, visit NICHD for valuable information.
Summary
Choosing the perfect watermelon involves looking for webbing, assessing color and weight, scanning for imperfections, and even checking for bee stings. By following these expert tips, you can ensure your watermelon is ripe and ready for summer enjoyment.
Leave a Reply