How to Pick a Sweet Watermelon

Picking the perfect watermelon can feel a bit like a gamble, but with a few tips, you can choose a sweet and juicy one almost every time! Here’s how to select the best watermelon at the store or farmers’ market:

1. Look for the Field Spot

Check for a creamy yellow spot, known as the field spot. This is where the watermelon rested on the ground and ripened under the sun. A white or absent field spot might indicate that it was picked too early.

2. Inspect the Weight

Pick up the watermelon; it should feel heavy for its size, which suggests it’s full of water and therefore juicier. Compare a few watermelons of similar size to see which feels heaviest.

3. Examine the Shape

Look for a watermelon that is uniform in shape. Oddly shaped watermelons may be an indication that it grew unevenly, possibly due to irregular watering.

4. Check the Surface

The skin should be dull and the rind hard. A shiny surface might indicate an underripe melon. Gently press on the rind; it should be firm and not give in to pressure.

5. Look for Sugar Spots and Webbing

Sugar spots, which look like brown, rough spots or blotches, are an indication of sweetness. Webbing, which appears as brown crisscross patterns, shows that bees touched the flower multiple times, generally a sign of a sweeter melon.

6. Tap the Watermelon

Give it a tap or knock. A ripe watermelon will have a deep, hollow sound. Underripe or overripe melons tend to have a duller thud.

7. Consider the Size

Not too big, not too small. Medium-sized watermelons are often the best in terms of texture and flavor balance.

8. Check for Uniform Color

The color should be consistent all around. Uneven coloring might suggest an uneven ripening process.

9. Avoid Imperfections

Steer clear of watermelons with cuts, dents, or soft spots. These could lead to premature spoiling or indicate that the melon was damaged while still growing.

By using these tips, you can more confidently select a watermelon that’s likely to be sweet and ready to enjoy. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you apply these tips, the better you’ll become at picking the perfect watermelon!