If you're growing watermelons in your garden for the first time, you may wonder how you'll know that they're ready to harvest.
Different varieties of watermelon have different "days to maturity," the amount of time from seeding or transplanting to harvestable fruit. This information should be listed on the seed packet or plant tag, and with it you can calculate a ballpark date for when you should begin checking for maturity. Around that time, look for signs of ripening on both the watermelon vine and the fruit:
The tendril closest to the stem end of the watermelon will turn brown as the fruit ripens.
Also, the underside of the watermelon, where it rests on the ground, will change from green to a yellowish white.
Finally, observe the watermelon's skin. As the melon ripens, its once shiny skin will turn dull. The watermelon rind will also feel slightly rough and tense.
Some people can pick a ripe watermelon by the sound it makes when you thump it. This is a more subjective indicator of maturity and requires a good ear. Immature watermelons have a metallic ringing sound after being thumped. A really deep thud usually indicates a watermelon that is overripe. One Japanese watermelon breeder likened the sounds to striking your forehead, your chest and your belly. You want to pick a melon that matches the sound your chest makes when thumped.
Learn more about growing and picking watermelons in these related articles:
And check out these two great watermelon varieties to grow at home:
