Nothing says summer like a slice of perfectly ripe, juicy watermelon. But have you ever picked one for your family to enjoy, only to find it flavorless or mushy once you cut it open? We understand that buying the right watermelon takes a little know-how. This guide will teach you how to buy the sweetest, juiciest watermelon this summer!
Look for the Field Spot
One of the easiest ways to tell if a watermelon is ripe is by checking its field spot. This is the creamy yellow or golden discolored patch on the rind, where it rested on the ground while growing. The richer the color, the longer the melon ripened on the vine, which means more sweetness for you! Avoid watermelons with white or pale green spots, as they were likely picked too early.
Check the Weight
A great watermelon should feel heavy for its size. Pick one up and compare it to others of a similar size. The heavier it is, the juicier it’s likely to be. This extra weight comes from a full watermelon that’s packed with water and ready to refresh you on a hot day.
Tap and Listen
Gently tap on the watermelon and listen to the sound it makes. A ripe melon will produce a deep, hollow sound, almost like a drum. The melon might not be as tasty as you’re hoping if the sound is dull or flat. This is a fun trick for testing watermelon ripeness that your kids will love helping with.
Look for a Uniform Shape
A sweet, flavorful watermelon is usually round and evenly grown. Uneven growth can indicate uneven ripeness, and nobody wants half a sweet watermelon!
Buy From a Reputable Store
Where you shop can also impact the quality of the watermelons you buy. Though this isn’t the primary factor you should focus on, it’s worth keeping in mind. Shop at stores or farmers markets that have a reputation for selling fresh, local produce. It should be obvious that the store knows how to maintain its cardboard produce bins and keep its fruit fresh when you walk inside. Supermarkets that work closely with local growers often have the freshest options. Better yet, visit a local farm stand if you can—that’s where you’re likeliest to find watermelons plucked fresh from the field.
Say Goodbye to Bad Watermelons
Now that you’re armed with these tips, your family is ready to buy only the sweetest, juiciest watermelon this summer! Have fun shopping with confidence and enjoying this refreshing fruit all season long.
