Check the ShapeA good watermelon should be symmetrical. Avoid ones with dents or irregularities. An oddly shaped melon may indicate uneven ripening or internal issues.
Look for the Sugar SpotLook for a sugar spot, which is a small, brownish mark that indicates sweetness. It’s a sign the watermelon is ripe and full of flavor.
Tap ItTap the melon with your fingers. If it sounds hollow, it’s ripe. A dull thud means the melon might not be as sweet or ripe.
Feel the WeightPick up the watermelon. It should feel heavy for its size. A heavy melon is packed with water and will likely be juicier and sweeter.
Check for a Field SpotThe field spot is the patch where the melon rested on the ground. A yellow or cream-colored field spot indicates ripeness, while a white spot suggests under-ripeness.
Examine the ColorThe melon’s color should be deep green with a consistent hue. Light green areas could indicate it was picked too early.
Check the StemIf the melon still has a stem attached, make sure it’s dry and brown. A green stem means it was harvested too early.
Smell ItFinally, give the watermelon a sniff. A sweet, fruity aroma at the stem end means it’s ripe and ready to eat.