Tips for Choosing Ripe Watermelons with Red Flesh, Sweetness, and Paper-Thin Texture
Look for the yellow field spot
When choosing a watermelon, always check the field spot first. If it’s a deep creamy yellow color, that’s a great sign it ripened naturally and will be sweet. A white or pale spot often means it was picked too early.
Check the color and texture
The best watermelons have a dull, dark green skin with clear striping. Shiny watermelons might look attractive but they’re usually underripe inside. Smooth skin without too many bruises is another good sign.
Pick it up and feel the weight
A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size. The extra weight means it’s full of water, making it juicier and sweeter. Always pick the heavier one when comparing two of the same size.
Give it a tap
Tap or knock on the watermelon and listen carefully. A deep, hollow sound usually means it’s ripe and ready to eat. A dull sound might indicate it’s overripe or underripe.
Check the tail
If you spot a tail or stem, check its color. A dry, brown tail means it ripened on the vine. A green tail could mean the fruit was harvested too early and might not be sweet enough.
Look for webbing
Brown web-like scars on the skin, called webbing, are actually a good sign. They show the fruit was well-pollinated, which often results in a sweeter taste.
Pick a nice shape
Always choose a watermelon that’s round or oval and symmetrical. Weird shapes can mean uneven growth and less sweetness.
A small bonus tip
If you want tender, paper-thin flesh along with amazing sweetness, go for varieties like Crimson Sweet or Sugar Baby. These are known for juicy, red, and fine-textured flesh.
