Watermelons are one of summer’s sweetest treats, but knowing exactly when to harvest them can be tricky. Pick them too early, and you’ll get a bland, pale fruit. Wait too long, and they might become overripe or spoil. So, how do you know when to harvest a watermelon to enjoy that juicy, sweet flavor? Let’s dive into some easy, reliable tips to help you pick the perfect watermelon every time.
When Is the Right Time to Harvest Watermelon?
Watermelons typically take between 70 to 85 days from planting to reach harvest time, but this varies depending on the variety and growing conditions. Usually, you’ll start checking for ripeness around 75 to 80 days after planting.
Keep in mind that watermelons do not continue to ripen after being picked. This means you want to be sure they’re fully ripe before harvesting to enjoy the best flavor and sweetness.
Key Signs to Look For When Harvesting Watermelon
1. Check the Yellow Patch (Field Spot)
One of the most reliable indicators is the yellow patch on the underside of the watermelon—the spot where the melon rested on the ground or mulch as it grew. This patch changes from white or pale green to a creamy yellow or buttery color when the watermelon is ripe. If the patch is still white or light green, the melon likely needs more time.
2. Observe the Tendril Near the Stem
Look at the curly tendril closest to where the watermelon’s stem attaches to the vine. When the watermelon is still growing, this tendril is green and healthy. As the fruit ripens, the tendril dries up, turning brown and shriveled. This is a strong sign that the watermelon is ready to pick.
3. Examine the Vine and Stem
The vine near the watermelon will often start to turn brown and dry out when the fruit is ripe. Also, when harvesting, leave about two inches of stem attached to the watermelon to keep it fresh longer.
4. Look at the Rind’s Appearance
The watermelon’s rind will change from shiny to a more dull, matte finish as it ripens. A glossy rind usually means the fruit is still immature.
5. Feel the Blossom End
The end of the watermelon opposite the stem, called the blossom end, will become slightly softer when the melon is ripe.
6. The Thump Test (Use with Caution)
Knocking or thumping the watermelon can sometimes help. A ripe watermelon often produces a deep, hollow sound, while an unripe one sounds more metallic or dull. However, this method is less reliable and can be difficult to interpret for beginners.
How to Harvest Your Watermelon
Once you’ve determined your watermelon is ripe, use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut it from the vine, leaving about two inches of stem attached. Avoid pulling the melon off by hand, as this can damage the fruit or vine.
After harvesting, watermelons can be stored at room temperature for about a week or refrigerated for two to three weeks to maintain freshness.
Extra Tips for Growing and Harvesting Watermelon
– Patience is key: Watermelons need time to develop their full sweetness. Don’t rush the harvest just because the fruit looks big.
– Keep an eye on the weather: Hot, sunny days help watermelons ripen faster, but too much rain or humidity can affect quality.
– Variety matters: Different watermelon types may show ripeness signs differently. For example, some have darker rinds or smaller sizes, so learn the traits of your specific variety.
– Smell the melon: When ripe, watermelons often emit a sweet, fruity aroma near the stem area.
Summary
Knowing when to harvest a watermelon is all about observing a few key signs: the creamy yellow ground spot, the dried tendril near the stem, the dull rind, and the softness at the blossom end. Combining these clues will help you pick a watermelon that’s juicy, sweet, and ready to enjoy.
Enjoy your perfectly ripe watermelon — the ultimate reward for your gardening patience!