How to Pick a Sweet Watermelon

How to Know When a Watermelon is Done Growing

When is a watermelon done growing and ready to harvest? This is a question that often puzzles gardeners and watermelon enthusiasts alike. While the process may seem simple, determining the perfect time to pick a watermelon can be tricky, as leaving it on the vine for too long or harvesting too early can significantly impact the fruit’s flavor, texture, and overall quality.

Signs a Watermelon is Ripe and Ready to Harvest

Recognizing the physical indicators of a ripe watermelon is crucial for a successful harvest. The most reliable signs to look for include the color of the rind, the sound it makes when tapped, and the condition of the tendril or curly stem attached to the fruit.

The rind should be a creamy yellow color, not white or green, as this indicates that the watermelon is still immature. Here are some other visual cues to watch for:

• A dull, cream-colored bottom or “belly” where the watermelon rested on the ground
• A hard, inedible white portion of the rind turning green
• The fading of white stripes or speckles on the rind

Tapping and Thumping Test

In addition to visual cues, the tapping or thumping test is a time-honored method for determining watermelon ripeness. This technique involves gently tapping or thumping the watermelon with your knuckles or the palm of your hand. A ripe watermelon will produce a hollow, dull thud, while an unripe one will sound more solid and high-pitched.

Tendril/Curly Stem Condition

Another reliable indicator of ripeness is the condition of the tendril or curly stem attached to the watermelon. As the fruit matures, this stem will gradually dry up and turn brown, eventually becoming crisp and easily detached from the watermelon. If the stem is still green and pliable, the watermelon is likely not yet ready for harvest.

Counting Days to Maturity

While visual and auditory cues are essential, tracking the number of days from pollination to harvest can also provide valuable insights into a watermelon’s maturity. Different watermelon varieties have varying maturation times, ranging from 70 to 90 days on average.

Here’s a table with some common watermelon varieties and their typical days to maturity:

VarietyDays to Maturity

Sugar Baby	70-75 days
Crimson Sweet	85-90 days
Charleston Gray	90-100 days
Jubilee	90-100 days
Sangria	85-95 days

Importance of Growing Conditions

It’s important to note that the number of days to maturity can vary depending on growing conditions. Factors such as soil quality, temperature, and water availability can all impact the watermelon’s growth rate. In general, warmer temperatures and consistent moisture will accelerate the maturation process, while cooler temperatures and drought conditions can slow it down.

When to Harvest

Once you’ve determined that your watermelon is ripe and ready for harvest, timing is crucial. The best time to harvest is typically in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. This helps prevent the watermelon from becoming overheated, which can lead to a shorter shelf life and compromised flavor.

When cutting the watermelon from the vine, be sure to leave a few inches of stem attached to the fruit. This helps prevent the watermelon from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria and extends its shelf life.

Curing Harvested Watermelons

After harvesting, many growers recommend a process called “curing” or allowing the watermelons to sit for a few days before consumption. This resting period helps to improve the flavor and texture of the fruit by allowing the sugars to fully develop and the flesh to become more tender.

To cure watermelons, simply store them at room temperature for two to three days before refrigerating or consuming them. Avoid stacking the watermelons during this time, as this can cause bruising and damage to the fruit.

Troubleshooting Overripe or Underripe Watermelons

Despite your best efforts, you may encounter situations where watermelons are harvested too early or left on the vine for too long. Both scenarios can lead to less-than-desirable results.

Signs of an overripe watermelon include:

• A yellowish-white rind with large, deep cracks
• A hollow, mushy interior
• An overly sweet, fermented flavor

On the other hand, underripe watermelons may exhibit the following characteristics:

• A hard, dense flesh that lacks juiciness
• A lack of sweetness or a bland, flavorless taste
• A firm, white rind with little to no yellowing

Storing and Preserving Watermelons

Once you’ve successfully harvested your ripe watermelons, it’s important to store them properly to extend their shelf life. Watermelons can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for up to two weeks. To prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, be sure to wrap any cut or sliced watermelon tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately.

If you find yourself with an abundance of watermelons, there are several preservation methods you can explore, such as freezing, pickling, or making watermelon jam or jelly. These techniques allow you to enjoy the sweet flavor of watermelons long after the growing season has ended.

Conclusion

Knowing when a watermelon is done growing and ready for harvest is a skill that takes practice and patience. By paying close attention to the physical indicators of ripeness, tracking the days to maturity, and understanding the importance of growing conditions, you can ensure a bountiful and flavorful watermelon harvest. Remember, proper harvesting and storage techniques are also crucial for maximizing the shelf life and quality of your watermelons. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy the sweet, juicy goodness of watermelons all season long.