Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Tell When Watermelons Are Ready To Pick







Ripe watermelons will be juicy and sweet on the inside.


Growing watermelons in your own garden might prove to be worth the hassle. When you have the space to do so, you will be able to grow dozens of watermelons throughout the season. These can be enjoyed by you and your family, and they can be given away to friends and neighbors. If you grow enough watermelons, you might even be able to make some extra cash at your local farmer's market. However, your watermelons won' be worth much unless you learn to tell when they are ready to pick.


Instructions


1. Research the variety to find out how large your watermelons should grow. Different varieties will grow to different sizes. If you're not sure, talk with a worker at your local plant nursery. You can also check a product description in the nursery for the type of watermelon you planted.








2. Look at the bottom of the watermelon. When the melon is ripe and ready to be picked, the bottom will have turned from a green color to more of a yellowish tint.


3. Take a knife and attempt to gently pierce through the skin of the watermelon. It should be tough to pierce when the melon is ripe.


4. Check the tendrils that are directly around the watermelon. If they're darkened and dry, you have a ripe melon.


5. Knock on the watermelon on an early morning. If you hear a light thump or a metallic noise, the watermelon it not ripe yet. A dull noise means that it is ready to be picked.

Tags: melon ripe, ready picked, your local, your watermelons