How to Tell if a Watermelon is Ripe

 

Nothing is more exciting than watching those watermelons size up.  Don't be too anxious to pick until you know it's ripe.  Once picked a melon will not continue to ripen, and if left on the vine too long it becomes mushy and will possibly split.  So here's three pointers to picking the perfect melon. 

• Look at the bottom of the melon. There is a light white patch. When it ripens, it turns a pale yellow. 

• Knock on the melon and it should sound someone knocking on the door. 

• The tendril and cupped leaf closest to the melon should be dried up.  

The first two tips work when picking out a melon from the grocery store. However a home grown melon is sweeter and so delicious. Make room for them in the garden.

My watermelon patch

How to Grow and Harvest Watermelon