Not every summer resident, and not every season, manages to grow a rich harvest of watermelons and melons in their garden beds.
In addition, if you don’t have experience, there is a risk that the melons may be picked ahead of time or, on the contrary, they may lie around for too long and start to rot.
Let's find out what signs indicate that melons and watermelons are not ripe.
It's time to pick melons
Even a novice gardener can determine the ripeness of a melon.
First, the melon changes its color from green to yellow.
Secondly, a distinct aroma appears.
Thirdly, the stalk dries out.
But even if you had to pick an unripe melon, after it lies at home for a while, it will return to normal.
It's time to pick watermelons
With a large berry, everything is more complicated. It does not change its color as it ripens, does not have a distinct aroma, and a dried-out tail is not always a sign of a ripe fruit.
1. It is better to pay attention to the ground spot. This is the place where the watermelon lies on the ground. If it has turned yellow, take the berry home.
2. Pay attention to the bark pattern – it should be clear, although much depends on the variety. And if there are doubts, another sign will help – the waxy coating that appears.
3. It wouldn't hurt to pat the watermelon before picking it, like when you buy it. A ripe one should ring.
4. And in the end it will be possible to check the condition of the tendril and stalk.
The main thing to remember is that, unlike a melon, a watermelon will not ripen or become tastier, no matter how long it sits at home.
