The art of choosing a sweet and ripe watermelon 🍉

1. The yellow spot (field spot / ground spot)
   What it is: This is the area on the underside of the watermelon where it has been lying on the ground and not directly exposed to the sun.
   What to look for: A creamy yellow to golden orange color is a very good sign. This means the melon has had enough time to ripen in the field and develop its sweetness. A white or even greenish spot indicates that the melon was harvested too early and is probably not as sweet.
2. The weight
   What to look for: Lift the watermelon. A ripe watermelon should feel surprisingly heavy for its size. Watermelons are over 90% water, and a high weight indicates a high water content and therefore juiciness and ripeness. If you have two melons of the same size, always choose the heavier one.
3. The Knock Test
   
   
   What to look for: Knock the watermelon with your knuckles or the palm of your hand.
   A ripe melon produces a deep, hollow, and full sound that resonates slightly. Some describe it as a dull or rich tone.
   An unripe sound is often brighter, flatter, or even metallic.
   An overripe sound can also be very dull and “mushy.”
4. The Stem Base (or the Hole Where the Stem Was)
   What to look for: If the watermelon still has a stem, it should be dry and brownish. This indicates that the melon was harvested ripe and has naturally separated from the vine. A green, fresh stem can be a sign that the melon was harvested too early. If only a small hole remains, that’s also a good sign.
5. The “spider web” (webs or brown lines)
   
   
   What to look for: Small, brown, net-like lines on the rind are actually a good sign! These so-called “sugar web” lines indicate that bees have pollinated the flower frequently. The more of them, the better the taste is said to be.
6. The shape and appearance of the rind
   What to look for: A ripe watermelon should have a uniform and symmetrical shape, without large dents or soft spots. The rind should be smooth and matte, not shiny. A shiny rind can indicate that the melon isn’t fully ripe. Look for a deep, rich green color, but note that the color can vary depending on the variety.
   In summary:
   If you find several of these characteristics on a watermelon, chances are you’ve picked up a wonderfully sweet and juicy fruit! It’s a mix of science and a bit of instinct, but with these tips, you’ll be well equipped.

Do you have a favorite watermelon trick that always works for you?