Picking ripe watermelon?

[Brian's Bride]

Does anyone know what to look for when picking out a watermelon?? I always seem to choose the ones that aren't ripe!

[BelhurstBride]

I was having the same problem! A few months ago I happened to come across somebody's blog who explained how to pick them.

You are supposed to pick a watermelon that seems very heavy for it's size. Like if you pick it up, you should think "This should NOT be this heavy!"

You should also pick a watermelon that sounds hollow. People probably think I'm crazy because I'm always knocking on watermelon in the store.. haha.

And the last thing you should check for is to make sure that there aren't any major dents or soft spots!

Since I've started checking for these things I haven't gotten a bad watermelon! :)

[FFC]

I knock on them like knocking on the door, and if it sounds hollow, then you're good. Also, smell it.. sorta like a pineapple or honeydew. If it smells sweet (not sour) it should be 'bout ripe. :)

[WebLady]

I knock on them like knocking on the door, and if it sounds hollow, then you're good. Also, smell it.. sorta like a pineapple or honeydew. If it smells sweet (not sour) it should be 'bout ripe. :)
I have always heard the thump/knock thing too.

I also heard the color is an indicator; it should be fairly even green and have a yellowish bottom (not white).

[RevMatty]

Being an ex chef, have to agree with all of the above on this topic.


Nice job ladies, your prizes are, you get to pass dish duty of to the hubby.

[NOTKT]

Also, I read the best ones are more round than oval in shape. Dark colors too. Always works with me.

[Brian's Bride]

Thanks for the responses! I actually googled it after I posted, and along with everything else mentioned, it said that if it's too stripey that means it's not ripe. The stripes should be pretty light colored and blended. And yellow bottoms, heavy (with lots of juice), and hollow. We'll see how my next shopping trip goes!

[FFC]

Good info! Thanks Breckan!

[Century Guy]

Wow, I'm glad I read this! I never knew any of that! :D Thanks all!

[Brian's Bride]

And the advice WORKED! :) I've purchased two watermelons since posting this and both were EXCELLENT!!!