Picking a sweet watermelon involves a few visual and tactile cues to look for. Here's how to choose one that's likely to be delicious:
Visual Cues
Shape
- Rounder is better: Opt for watermelons that are round rather than oval. According to our references, round watermelons are generally sweeter and less watery than their oval counterparts.
Field Spot
- Look for a dark, yellow spot: The "field spot" is the area where the watermelon rested on the ground as it grew. A darker, more yellow spot indicates more flavor and ripeness compared to a lighter, whiter one.
Webbing
- More webbing, more sweetness: Look for a watermelon with a good amount of "webbing" or brown, net-like lines, these indicate that the watermelon has been pollinated many times by bees, suggesting that the watermelon is sweeter.
Shine
- Avoid shiny rinds: A shiny watermelon is an indication that it is less ripe. Select a watermelon that has a dull and matte skin.
Summary Table
| Feature | What to Look For | Indicates |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Round | Sweeter and less watery |
| Field Spot | Darker, yellow | More flavor and ripeness |
| Webbing | Larger sections | More sweetness |
| Shine | Dull, matte | Riper |
By using these tips you can choose a delicious and sweet watermelon. Happy watermelon picking!
