One of the hardest things about growing watermelons is choosing a ripe one.
A watermelon develops almost half of its sugar content during the last week of maturation, so it is important not to harvest a watermelon too soon. Choosing a ripe watermelon is a challenge, and even experienced growers sometimes make mistakes. The "thump test" is best left to those with experience, but the watermelon and its vine give growers a few clues. Unlike many vegetables and fruits, once harvested, a watermelon does not continue to ripen.
Instructions
1. Check the color of the bottom of the melon. When the part of the melon that rests on the ground goes from white to light yellow, the melon is generally ripe.
2. Look at the tendrils near the melon. Tendrils are thin, twirling parts of the vine. When the melon is ripe, the nearest tendrils dry up and turn brown.
3. Thump the watermelon with your finger and listen to the sound. A muffled, dull or hollow sound indicates a ripe melon. Immature melons have a hollow, ringing sound. It is difficult for beginners to tell the difference, but with practice you may develop an ear for a ripe melon.
4. Cut ripe watermelons from the vine using a sharp knife or pruners. Don't pull or tug on the vine.
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