If you love watermelon but find the giant melons a bit too much for your fridge or family, the icebox watermelon might just be your perfect match. Known for their manageable size and sweet flavor, icebox watermelons have become a favorite for gardeners and fruit lovers alike. But just how big do icebox watermelons get? Let’s dive into the juicy details!
What Is an Icebox Watermelon?
Icebox watermelons are a special type of watermelon bred specifically for their smaller size. The name “icebox” comes from their perfect fit inside traditional iceboxes or modern refrigerators, making them super convenient for storage and transport. Unlike the large picnic watermelons that can weigh over 20 pounds, icebox varieties are more compact and easier to handle.
These melons are not only smaller but also sweeter and often have a thinner rind, making them ideal for fresh eating, salads, and desserts. They come in various colors and shapes, including round and slightly oblong forms, with flesh ranging from the classic red to yellow or orange in some varieties.
How Big Do Icebox Watermelons Get?
The size of icebox watermelons typically ranges between 6 and 15 pounds (about 2.7 to 6.8 kilograms). Most commonly, they weigh around 8 to 10 pounds, which is just right for a small family or individual consumption without worrying about leftovers going to waste.
Some varieties might be on the smaller side, weighing as little as 3 to 5 pounds, while others can push up to 15 pounds but still maintain the compact shape that defines the icebox type. This size range makes them significantly smaller than the traditional picnic watermelons, which can often exceed 20 pounds.
Why Choose Icebox Watermelons?
– Perfect for Small Spaces: Icebox watermelons grow on shorter vines, often only about 3 to 3.5 feet long, making them ideal for small gardens, patios, or even container gardening.
– Fits in Your Fridge: Their compact size means they fit easily in refrigerators, so you can chill your watermelon without hassle.
– Less Waste: Because they are smaller, you’re less likely to have leftover fruit that spoils before you finish it.
– Faster Growing: Icebox watermelons are considered short-season melons, maturing faster than larger varieties, which is great for gardeners eager to enjoy fresh fruit sooner.
– Variety of Flavors and Colors: From classic red flesh to yellow and orange, and from seeded to seedless, there’s an icebox watermelon for every taste preference.
Popular Icebox Watermelon Varieties and Their Sizes
Here are some well-known icebox watermelon varieties and their typical weights:
| Variety | Average Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar Baby | 6 to 10 pounds | Classic small, sweet, dark rind |
| Hime Kansen | 5 to 6 pounds | Slightly oblong, high sugar content (Brix 12.5-13) |
| Yellow Gem | 9 to 15 pounds | Yellow flesh, seeded |
| Red Doll | Under 5 pounds | Very small, personal-sized melon |
| Tiger Baby | Around 8 pounds | Striped rind, sweet flavor |
These examples show that icebox watermelons can vary quite a bit but always stay within a manageable size range.
Growing Tips for Icebox Watermelons
If you’re thinking about growing your own icebox watermelons, here are some friendly tips:
– Space: Despite their small fruit size, the vines can still spread around 12 feet, so give them enough room or use containers to control growth.
– Sunlight: Watermelons love full sun, so plant them where they get at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
– Soil: Use fertile, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0 to 7.0) for best results.
– Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Drip irrigation or regular watering of 1-2 inches per week works well.
– Harvesting: Icebox watermelons mature faster than larger types, often ready to harvest in about 80 days, depending on the variety.
Why Are They Called Icebox Watermelons?
The term “icebox” dates back to the time before modern refrigerators when people used iceboxes to keep food cool. These watermelons were small enough to fit inside those iceboxes, making them convenient for picnics and family gatherings without the hassle of lugging around a giant melon. The name stuck and now perfectly describes these compact, fridge-friendly fruits.
Health Benefits of Icebox Watermelons
Like all watermelons, icebox varieties are low in calories but high in hydration, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. They make a refreshing and healthy snack, especially in hot weather, and their sweetness comes naturally without added sugars.
Icebox watermelons typically grow between 6 and 15 pounds, making them the perfect size for easy handling, storage, and consumption. Their compact size, sweet flavor, and quick maturity make them a favorite for gardeners and fruit lovers who want the classic watermelon experience without the bulk. Whether you’re growing them in your backyard or picking one up at the market, icebox watermelons are a delicious, convenient summer treat.