how to tell if a watermelon is ripe

To tell if a watermelon is ripe, look for several key indicators:

1. Check the tendril closest to the watermelon on the vine; if it is dry and brown, this is a good sign that the watermelon is ripe.
2. Look for a creamy yellow "field spot" on the underside of the watermelon where it rested on the ground; a yellow or creamy spot means it ripened on the vine.
3. The watermelon should be uniform in shape, free of major dents or bruises, and have a dull—not shiny—surface.
4. When tapped or thumped, a ripe watermelon produces a deep, hollow sound indicating juiciness inside.
5. The watermelon should feel heavy for its size, indicating a dense, juicy fruit.

These visual, tactile, and auditory cues together provide good guidance in picking a ripe watermelon.