Watermelon Love: How to Choose the One That’s Perfect for Your Next Picnic
Check the ShapeChoose a watermelon that’s symmetrical and round. Avoid ones with dents or irregular shapes, as they may indicate a bad spot or uneven ripening.
Look for the Sugar SpotA sugar spot is a sign of ripeness. Look for areas with small white or cream spots, which are signs of natural sugars forming.
Pick a Heavy OneThe heavier the watermelon, the juicier it is likely to be. Pick it up and compare it to others of the same size.
Tap the WatermelonGive the melon a tap. A ripe watermelon will have a deep, hollow sound, indicating it’s full of water and ripe.
Inspect the SkinThe skin should be firm and smooth, with a nice glossy finish. Avoid melons with soft spots or cuts, which may indicate internal damage or spoilage.
Look for a Sugar LineLook for a small line or crack near the rind. This sugar line is a natural sign that the watermelon has sweet, mature flesh inside.
Examine the Field SpotThe field spot (the yellow spot on the skin where it sat on the ground) should be golden yellow or creamy.
Check the StemIf the watermelon still has its stem, make sure it’s dry. A fresh green stem suggests the melon was picked too early.