Look For A Dull Melon
A shiny watermelon might be more photogenic, but a dull appearance is actually better. A watermelon that’s too shiny is underripe.
Look For A Yellow Field Spot
One of the most well-known clues of a perfect melon is a yellow spot on its belly. This is often referred to as the “field” or “ground” spot, as it’s the portion of the melon that was lying on the ground when growing. Manaker says this spot should be “buttery yellow.”
“If it’s too orange, the watermelon is overripe and mushy. If it’s too white, it’s underripe and will taste bland, like cucumber.”
Check For Russeting & Webbing
“Avoid watermelons with visible damage like gashes, bruises, or punctures, as these can affect the quality inside,” Manaker says. But what are considered good signs are russeting and webbing. Dry brown spots are russeting, and ones that look more web-like are called webbing. This pattern is formed when bees pollinate the flowers, which in turn pollinate the fruit. “Larger webbing typically means it is a sweeter watermelon,” Alstede Modery says.
Check The Weight
You want to pick a melon that feels heavy. “Watermelons are 92% water, so a heavier one means it’s juicy,” Manaker says. A watermelon that feels too light, on the other hand, might be a little too ripe. It’s a sign the watermelon has started to dry out. A dry watermelon? No thank you.
Slap It Gently
Yes, it’s another common tip you’re probably heard, and it has some truth to it. What you want to pay attention to is the sound. If it sounds too dull or muted, the watermelon might not be as juicy. A hollow, crisp sound is what you want.
