Idaho is known for super sweet and tasty watermelons. They are available from July through early October. Find a local farm to pick your own or get a bargain at the store.
- Spot the Field Spot– This yellow/gold spot on the bottom means the melon basked in the sun on the farm and was ripe when picked. Watermelons only ripen while on the vine. A dark, shiny green melon with no gold “field spot” may mean a melon is under-ripe.
- Pick Up the Melon– A ripe watermelon will feel very heavy for its size and the rind should be firm with no soft spots.
- Smell the Melon– A ripe watermelon will have a mild smell, even through the rind!Â
- Here’s a video from the National Watermelon Board: Look, Lift, & Turn!