Hello, Lykkers! Standing in front of a pile of watermelons, wondering how to pick the sweetest one?

Choosing the perfect watermelon may seem like a guessing game, but with a few simple tips, finding the juiciest, sweetest melon is easier than you think.

Today, we're diving into some fun, practical tips to ensure that every watermelon you pick is bursting with sweetness and flavor.

Ever noticed a large yellow patch on the bottom of a watermelon? That's called the ''sugar spot,'' and it's one of the best indicators of sweetness. This spot forms where the melon rested on the ground while ripening under the sun. The darker and more pronounced the yellow, the longer the watermelon stayed on the vine to develop its sugars. Avoid watermelons that have a white or pale spot, as they likely weren’t fully ripened and may not be as sweet.

Knock for a Hollow Sound

The next time you pick up a watermelon, give it a gentle knock. A ripe, sweet melon will produce a deep, hollow sound, almost like a drum. This indicates that the flesh is firm and full of juice. If the sound is dull or flat, it may suggest that the watermelon is either underripe or overripe. Try knocking on a few to hear the difference—it's fun and a quick way to check ripeness.

Check the Webbing

Those rough, brownish veins or web-like marks on the skin might not look appealing, but they are actually a good sign. These marks indicate that bees touched the watermelon's flower several times during pollination, which typically results in a sweeter fruit. The more webbing you see, the better the chances that your watermelon is full of natural sweetness.

Pick the Heaviest One

Weight is a great indicator of ripeness. When choosing between similar-sized watermelons, always go for the heaviest one. A heavier watermelon means it's full of water and juice, signaling that it's ripe and ready to eat. If the melon feels lighter than expected for its size, it could be dry inside, which is never a good sign when seeking that perfect bite.

Shape Matters Too

Watermelons come in various shapes—round, oval, and sometimes irregular. A round watermelon is usually sweeter, while an oval one tends to have a more watery texture. If sweetness is your priority, aim for a melon that's more symmetrical and round. Of course, this doesn't mean an oval one can't be delicious, but round ones are generally known for their sugar content.

Look for a Uniform Color

A uniform dark green color is another great sign of a ripe watermelon. The skin should have a healthy sheen, not too shiny or dull. Avoid melons with many dents, bumps, or bruises, as these can indicate that the fruit was damaged during growth or transportation, potentially affecting the flavor and texture.

The Stem Tells a Story

Lastly, take a look at the watermelon's stem. A dried, brown stem usually means that the watermelon was picked when it was fully ripe. On the other hand, a green stem may indicate that the fruit was picked too early, which could result in a less sweet taste. While not all watermelons will have a stem, this tip can be useful when available.

Lykkers, the next time you're at the market looking for a watermelon, remember these handy tips. From checking for sugar spots to knocking for that perfect hollow sound, each small detail can lead you to a sweeter, juicier melon. Enjoy the refreshing, sun-kissed sweetness of watermelon, knowing you've picked the best one from the bunch. Here’s to those perfect summer moments, made sweeter with every slice!