Determining the Ideal Moment to Harvest Watermelons: Valuable Time-based Guidelines
In the world of gardening, few figures are as well-versed in the art of growing delicious fruits as Larry Meyers. With over a decade of experience in lawn and landscaping, Meyers has become a go-to source for all things horticulture. From planting tulips in Missouri to when to plant pumpkins in Michigan for Halloween, Meyers has shared his knowledge widely, aiming to educate and inspire fellow gardeners.
When it comes to watermelons, Meyers offers some valuable tips on selecting the perfect ripe fruit. To determine if a watermelon is ready for picking, you can use a combination of visual inspection, the field spot, the thump test, and tendril changes.
**Visual Inspection (Field Spot):** Look for the field spot, the area where the watermelon rested on the ground while ripening. A ripe watermelon will have a large, creamy yellow or buttery yellow patch on one side. If the spot is white or greenish, the melon is likely underripe.
**Thump Test:** Give the watermelon a firm thump with your knuckles. A ripe watermelon produces a deep, hollow sound, like knocking on a door. If the sound is high-pitched or ringing, it’s underripe; if it’s a dull thud or feels mushy, it’s overripe.
**Tendril Changes:** Check the curly tendril nearest the stem of the watermelon. When the tendril turns dry, brown, and shriveled, this usually indicates the melon is ripe. If the tendril is still green, the melon was picked too early and is not ready.
**Additional Visual Cues:** The watermelon rind should be dull, not shiny, and the watermelon should feel heavy for its size, indicating high water content and juiciness.
Using these methods together increases your chances of selecting a sweet, ripe watermelon without cutting it open. The field spot’s creamy yellow color and the dry tendril confirm sufficient ripening on the vine, while the thump test helps assess the internal texture and sweetness before purchase.
Watermelons need at least eight hours of direct sunlight every day and should be planted after the last frost when the soil is warm. Mixing compost into the soil can improve drainage for watermelons, ensuring they receive the nutrients they need to grow.
When it comes to storage, watermelons should be stored in temperatures above 50°F (10°C) to prevent decay. Uncut watermelons can last up to a week at room temperature, but once cut, they should be wrapped tightly in plastic and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To avoid decay, it's best to avoid storing watermelons with apples or tomatoes. A lopsided watermelon may not have grown evenly, affecting its taste, so aim for a watermelon that is symmetrical and not have any large flat sides.
With these tips in mind, you're now equipped to choose the perfect ripe watermelon and enjoy the sweet taste of success in your garden. Happy gardening!
- To cultivate thriving watermelons in your home-and-garden, Larry Meyers, the renowned gardener, suggests planting them after the last frost when soil is warm, ensuring at least eight hours of direct sunlight daily and improving drainage with compost.
- Mixing your knowledge of various visual cues, such as field spot, thump test, tendril changes, and weight of the watermelon, will help you select a sweet, ripe watermelon for your lifestyle, enhancing your home-and-garden experiences with their delicious taste.
