Nizhny Novgorod residents were told how to choose a juicy sweet melon

      July 30, 2025, 09:23

      [146]

      Society

      With the arrival of August, the watermelon season begins in the Nizhny Novgorod region — one of the main symbols of summer. When choosing this juicy fruit, many rely on the sound it makes when tapped. Gardener Ekaterina Kosolapova shared with the "360" TV channel tips on how to properly select a watermelon to ensure it is ripe and sweet.

      To avoid mistakes, pay attention to several important signs:

      Soil spot: This is a light spot on the side of the watermelon, which forms at the point where it contacts the ground during ripening. If the spot is large, matte, and yellow, it indicates natural ripeness. A white spot suggests the watermelon was harvested too early and may be watery and not sweet.

      Sound when tapped: Tap the watermelon with your knuckles or palm. A hollow and ringing sound indicates ripeness. A dull sound may mean the watermelon is either overripe or underripe.

      Skin condition: Try scratching the watermelon with a fingernail. If the skin is hard and difficult to damage, it is a good sign. Also, pay attention to the coloration: bright, contrasting stripes with clear boundaries indicate high quality. Pale or blurry stripes may indicate immaturity.

      Condition of the stem: The watermelon’s stem, or peduncle, can also provide useful information. A dry and slightly curved stem suggests the watermelon ripened on the vine. A green, fresh stem indicates it was picked prematurely and may not be sweet.

      Shape and weight: Choose medium-sized, round watermelons. They should be heavy for their size. Overly elongated watermelons are often less sweet.

      Webbing on the skin: Thin, yellowish “cobwebs” on the skin are traces of bee pollination. The more of them, the higher the likelihood that the watermelon will be sweet.

      Additionally, avoid purchasing cut watermelons, especially if they have been left in the heat for a long time. Bacteria multiply quickly in the pulp of such fruits. Buy watermelons only from certified points of sale and avoid roadside purchases, as watermelons sold along highways may contain heavy metals.

      By following these tips, you can select a ripe and sweet watermelon that will be a true centerpiece on your table and provide you with great pleasure. Enjoy summer and the taste of juicy watermelon!

      Earlier, residents of Nizhny Novgorod were advised on how not to get poisoned by strawberries and cherries from the market.

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