When picking a watermelon, there are several things to consider. Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect watermelon:
1. Buy at its peak: For the freshest watermelon, get a leg up by shopping in season, which is May through September in the U.S.
2. Look for a butter, pale yellow spot: This is where the watermelon sat on the ground and ripened in the sun. If it's white or greenish, it's not ripe yet.
3. Look for uniformity: A good watermelon should be symmetrical and uniform in shape.
4. Examine rind texture: The rind should be dull and matte, not shiny.
5. Find the brown stem: A dried stem indicates that the watermelon is ripe.
6. Search for sugar spots: Sugar spots are brown, rough patches on the rind that indicate extra sweetness.
7. Pick it up: A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size.
8. Try the thump test: Tap the watermelon with your knuckles and listen for a deep, hollow sound.
Here's an example of how to use these tips: Look for a symmetrical watermelon with a dull rind that has a buttery yellow spot on one side. Check for sugar spots and make sure it feels heavy for its size. Finally, give it a tap and listen for a deep, hollow sound .
