Viral Video Reveals How to Choose the Perfect Watermelon

The Insider’s Guide

When summer rolls around, the season isn’t complete until you’ve indulged in a refreshing, ripe watermelon. This fruit is the epitome of sunny days and warm evenings, and it can elevate your favorite summer salads, wraps, and desserts or simply be enjoyed straight from the rind. However, selecting a perfect watermelon can be a bit challenging.

You may have come across various tips and tricks for choosing a good watermelon, some of which are quite helpful. Recently, a viral TikTok video by a produce expert, Mia Thompson, who runs Thompson’s Produce, shared key insights on what to look for when selecting a watermelon. Her video quickly garnered over 5.5 million views, and it highlighted four crucial factors: webbing, ground spots, weight, and bee stings. We also consulted with plant specialist Jake Martin, who provided additional valuable advice.

“Watermelons spend about 70 to 100 days on the vine before they are harvested,” explains Martin, a plant pathologist at Green Seed Co. “They don’t ripen once picked, so it’s essential to choose one that’s already at its peak.” This means you can’t simply leave a watermelon out to ripen like you would an avocado. Here are the expert steps to ensure you pick a tasty watermelon every time.

Step 1: Look for Webbing

Start by examining the surface of the watermelon for webbing, which are the brown, raised lines on the skin. “A watermelon with lots of webbing is typically sweet,” Mia says. Larger webbing indicates greater sweetness, while smaller webbing suggests a lack of flavor.

Step 2: Check the Coloring and Shine

Next, inspect the coloring. Look for a significant yellow or white spot on the bottom, known as the ground spot. This indicates the watermelon spent sufficient time in the sun. A shiny exterior often means it was harvested too early, so choose one that appears dull and dark.

Step 3: Inspect for Imperfections

While focusing on positive features, also check for any signs of damage such as bruises or soft spots. “A quality watermelon should be symmetrical and without deformities,” Martin advises.

Step 4: Assess the Weight

Weight is another telling factor. “A heavy watermelon is a good sign,” says Mia. Since watermelons are mostly water, a heavier one is likely to be juicy and refreshing. Compare its weight with others to ensure you’re making the right choice.

Step 5: Look for Bee Stings

You might not have heard this one before: tiny pinpricks on the rind, which indicate bees have been attracted to the sweet fruit. “If bees are interested, it’s a good sign that the watermelon is sweet,” Mia explains.

Step 6: Smell for Sweetness

While not as straightforward as with other fruits, a ripe watermelon should give off a slight sweet scent. If it smells foul or overly tangy, it’s best to avoid it.

Common Misconceptions

Some people believe in tapping the watermelon to hear a hollow sound or assessing the stem for color. However, these methods may not be as reliable as the steps mentioned above.

How to Identify a Bad Watermelon

If your watermelon has been sitting in the fridge for a while, check its flesh. It should be juicy and vibrant in color, not slimy or gritty. A clean, fresh smell should accompany it. Signs of aging include a dry rind or a mushy interior, but remember, every part of the watermelon is useful.

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In summary, selecting the perfect watermelon is a blend of careful observation and a little knowledge. By following these expert tips, you can ensure that your summer gatherings are filled with delicious, juicy watermelon that everyone will enjoy.

Keyphrase: How to pick a watermelon

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