Watermelon, a much-loved fruit that has been enjoyed for centuries, comes in a wide array of varieties. From the classic sweet and juicy red fruit to unique and lesser-known types, there is a watermelon variety to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a beginner’s guide to watermelons or a seasoned veteran, there are so many interesting and delicious options to explore.
One such variety is the Royal Baby Jubilee, a sweet and dessert-like watermelon that is perfect for indulging in after a meal. Its deep red, crisp flesh makes it ideal for refreshing summer salads or enjoying on its own. Another intriguing option is the Clay Kodama, which features silver-gray stripes on its rind and offers a unique flavor that is both sweet and savory. It is a popular choice in Florida and is often used to create innovative watermelon dishes.
In addition to these lesser-known varieties, there are also the classics that we all know and love. The Mountain Gray Kodama, for example, has been grown in North Carolina for decades and is known for its large size and sweet, juicy meat. It’s the perfect variety to enjoy on a hot summer day.
If you’re looking for something a little different, the Beni Kodama is a cross between a watermelon and a muskmelon. It has a smaller size and a green rind that turns yellow when ripe. Despite its size, it packs a big punch with its sweet flavor and is a delight to feed to the whole family.
These are just a few examples of the wide variety of watermelons that are available. Whether you prefer the classic sweet and juicy varieties or want to try something new and unique, there is a watermelon out there to suit every taste and occasion. So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to take a closer look at the watermelon section and see what delicious innovations and surprises await.
Watermelon
Watermelons are large, round fruits with a thick rind and juicy flesh. They are a popular summertime treat, enjoyed by people of all ages. There are many different varieties of watermelon, each with its own unique characteristics.
One type of watermelon is the red-fleshed variety. These watermelons have a deep red color and are sweet and flavorful. Some popular red-fleshed watermelon varieties include the Sugar Baby, Charleston Gray, and Jubilee.
Seeds are another important characteristic of watermelons. Some watermelon varieties have seeds, while others are seedless. Seedless watermelons, like the Big Tasty, have been bred to not produce mature seeds. These watermelons are sweeter and easier to eat.
Watermelons come in different shapes and sizes. The icebox-size watermelons are small and perfect for a single serving. Oval-shaped watermelons, like the Kodama, are great for slicing and serving at picnics. On the other hand, larger watermelons, like the Desert King, can be sliced into many servings.
Watermelon vines are fast-growing and can be trained to climb trellises or fences. They are a low-maintenance plant, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners. The vines can grow up to 20 feet long and produce numerous fruit.
In addition to the traditional red-fleshed watermelons, there are also other varieties with different colors. For example, the yellow-fleshed watermelon variety called Yamato is a popular choice for its sweet and juicy flesh. Another unique variety is the King of Hearts, which has dark red flesh and a striped green and yellow rind.
When harvesting watermelons, it is important to check for ripeness. Ripe watermelons will have a hollow sound when tapped and the rind should be dull in color. They are typically harvested between 26-30 days after flowering.
Watermelons are not only delicious to eat fresh, but they can also be used in various recipes. Some popular watermelon desserts include watermelon sorbet, watermelon popsicles, and watermelon ice cream. Watermelon can also be used in savory dishes, such as salads and salsas.
Overall, watermelon is a versatile and refreshing fruit that is loved by many. Whether you prefer a seeded or seedless variety, there is a watermelon for everyone’s taste. So, next time you are in the mood for a sweet and juicy treat, consider trying one of the many different watermelon varieties available.
LARGE and small – for everyone
When it comes to watermelons, there are varieties of all sizes and shapes to suit everyone’s taste buds. From the traditional round ones to the unique oval-shaped ones, watermelons are a versatile vegetable that offers something for everyone.
One such variety is the Odells, which are oval-shaped and ripen evenly from one end to the other. They have a thick green rind and a sweet, juicy flesh that is perfect for snacking or adding to salads.
In the United States, the Sugartown watermelon variety is extremely popular. It has a light green rind and a rich red flesh that is incredibly sweet. Despite its name, the Charleston Gray watermelon is also a best-selling variety. It has a light green rind with dark green stripes and a sweet, juicy flesh.
If you’re a fan of yellow watermelons, there are options like the Yamato, Rattlesnake, Allsweet, and Saskatchewan. These watermelons have a yellow rind and a sweet, tender flesh that is a great alternative to the more common red variety.
For a truly unique watermelon experience, you can try the Silver and Orangeglo varieties. The Silver variety has a marbled blue-green rind and a juicy, sweet flesh. The Orangeglo variety, as the name suggests, has a bright orange flesh that is incredibly sweet and flavorful.
If you’re looking for a smaller-sized watermelon, there are options like the Mini Love and Mini Blue varieties. These mini watermelons are perfect for individuals or small families and offer the same juicy and sweet flavor as their larger counterparts.
When it comes to watermelon varieties, there is truly something for everyone. Whether you prefer a large round watermelon or a small mini watermelon, the range of flavors and textures available will never disappoint. So next time you’re in the produce department, be sure to pick up a watermelon and enjoy the sweet and refreshing taste that has been loved for decades.
Crimson Sweet Seedless
The Crimson Sweet Seedless watermelon is one of the 26 watermelon varieties you probably didn’t know existed. While watermelons are generally known for their juicy flesh and sweet taste, this particular variety takes it to a whole new level.
Unlike other types of watermelons, the Crimson Sweet Seedless does not have any black seeds. This makes it a popular choice for those who don’t enjoy dealing with the inconvenience of spitting out or removing seeds while eating. It’s also a great option for making desserts or salads, as you can simply enjoy the sweet and juicy flesh without any interruptions.
The name “Crimson Sweet” comes from the vibrant red color of the melon’s rind, which is in contrast to the light green color found on the outside of most watermelons. The overall appearance of the Crimson Sweet Seedless is quite stunning, making it a favorite choice for fruit enthusiasts.
The flavor profile of the Crimson Sweet Seedless is described as sweeter than average, with a hint of creaminess. Its texture is smooth and the flesh is juicy, which makes it a delight to eat. On average, this variety weighs about 14 to 17 pounds, making it a manageable size for most people.
One of the key features of the Crimson Sweet Seedless is its ability to store well. It can be kept for up to 4 weeks without losing its flavor or juiciness. This is a great advantage for those who like to buy watermelons in bulk or for businesses that need to store larger quantities.
The Crimson Sweet Seedless watermelon was introduced by Chris Willhite, a watermelon farmer based in the United States. Chris comes from a long line of watermelon farmers, with his family having been in the business for over 100 years. As a fourth-generation farmer, he is known for his expertise in watermelon cultivation and has a wide range of watermelon varieties in his portfolio.
In terms of yield, the Crimson Sweet Seedless is a high performer. It typically yields about 25 to 26 percent more fruit compared to other watermelon varieties, which makes it a profitable choice for farmers. Its vines are strong and produce an abundant harvest.
Overall, the Crimson Sweet Seedless is a gorgeous and delicious watermelon variety that stands out from the crowd. Its seedless nature, sweeter flavor, and longer storage life make it a desirable choice for consumers and growers alike.
Personal Seedless
The Personal Seedless watermelon, also known as Citron, is a small variety of watermelon that weighs around 6 to 8 pounds. It has a dark green, almost black, thick rind with light green stripes. The oval-shaped melon is about the size of a bowling ball and has a hint of blue color on the skin.
Despite its small size, Personal Seedless watermelons have a high sugar content, making them incredibly sweet. They have bright red, crisp, and juicy flesh, which is seedless. This makes it easy to slice and enjoy without having to worry about removing the seeds.
The Personal Seedless watermelon is easy to grow and thrives in warm climates. It is resistant to diseases like anthracnose and blacktail, which makes it a favorite among watermelon enthusiasts. These watermelons are delicious on their own as a refreshing snack, but they can also be used in smoothies and desserts.
Brought to fruition by James Willhite in the late 1940s, the Personal Seedless watermelon has been popular for decades. It is one of the more expensive watermelon varieties, with some personal seedless watermelons reaching up to $21 per melon.
Despite its expensive price range, the Personal Seedless watermelon is worth every penny. Its overall taste and texture are superb, and its sweet flavor is hard to beat. So if you’re a watermelon lover, make sure to check out this unique and delicious variety.
26 Watermelon Varieties You Didn’t Know Existed
Watermelons are a beloved summer fruit, known for their refreshing sweetness and juicy texture. While most people are familiar with the classic seedless or sugar baby watermelons, there is a whole world of watermelon varieties that you may not have heard of. Here are 26 watermelon varieties that you didn’t know existed:
1. Jubilee: This watermelon variety is a favorite among farmers and consumers alike. It is known for its large size and sweet, juicy flesh.
2. University: The University watermelon is a popular choice for those looking for a sweet and crunchy fruit. It is known for its high sugar content.
3. Lemon: As the name suggests, this watermelon variety has a tangy, lemon-like flavor. It is a great choice for those who prefer a slightly tart taste.
4. Chris Cross: The Chris Cross watermelon variety is known for its unique patterned rind. It contains both dark green and light green stripes.
5. Rattlesnake: This watermelon variety gets its name from its distinctive skin pattern that resembles a rattlesnake’s markings. It has a sweet and crisp flesh.
6. Big Stripe: The Big Stripe watermelon variety is characterized by its white-colored flesh and pink rind. It is a visually striking fruit.
7. Tendergold: This watermelon variety is known for its tender and juicy flesh. It is a popular choice for making watermelon salads or refreshing beverages.
8. Icebox-size: As the name suggests, this watermelon variety is perfect for those who prefer smaller-sized fruits. It is ideal for personal consumption.
9. Watson: The Watson watermelon variety is known for its sweet and refreshing taste. It is a popular choice among watermelon enthusiasts.
10. Midget: This watermelon variety is small in size but big on flavor. It is perfect for snacking and can easily be packed in lunchboxes or picnics.
11. Clay County: The Clay County watermelon variety is a well-known choice in the Missouri region. It has a golden rind and tastes delicious.
12. Diamond: This watermelon variety is named after its diamond-shaped seeds. It is a sweet and juicy fruit that is perfect for summer picnics.
13. Calsweet: The Calsweet watermelon variety is known for its high sugar content and crisp texture. It is a favorite among watermelon lovers.
14. Yamato: The Yamato watermelon variety originates from Japan. It is known for its oval shape and sweet, juicy flesh.
15. Odells: The Odells watermelon variety is a popular choice in the South. It has a dark green rind and a sweet, refreshing taste.
16. Kaho: The Kaho watermelon variety is small in size but big on flavor. It has a crisp and juicy flesh that is perfect for summer snacking.
17. Black Diamond: This watermelon variety is known for its dark green rind and sweet, juicy flesh. It is a late-season watermelon.
18. Piccolo: The Piccolo watermelon variety is a small-sized fruit that is perfect for personal consumption. It has a sweet and crisp flesh.
19. Personal: This watermelon variety is perfect for individuals who prefer smaller-sized fruits. It weighs about 10-14 pounds.
20. Blue Ribbon: The Blue Ribbon watermelon variety is a best-selling choice among watermelon enthusiasts. It has a sweet and juicy flesh.
21. Golden Midget: This watermelon variety is a small-sized fruit with a golden rind. It is perfect for individuals who prefer a sweeter taste.
22. Ocelot: The Ocelot watermelon variety is known for its distinct black stripes on a light green rind. It has a sweet and crisp flesh.
23. Thomas Jefferson: This watermelon variety is named after the former US president, who was known for his love of watermelons. It is a favorite among gardeners.
24. Jumbo: The Jumbo watermelon variety lives up to its name with its large and juicy fruits. It is perfect for sharing with a group.
25. Honeyheart: The Honeyheart watermelon variety is known for its sweet and honey-like flavor. It is a favorite among those who prefer a milder taste.
26. Savor: The Savor watermelon variety is a hybrid that offers a perfect balance between sweetness and crispness. It is great for all types of recipes, whether it’s a refreshing salad or a summer cocktail.
