When to Harvest Sugar Baby Watermelon: A Complete Guide for Gardeners

Sugar baby watermelons are a beloved fruit for gardeners to grow. Their compact size and sweet flavor make them perfect for smaller spaces. But knowing exactly when to pick these petite melons can be a challenge. Harvesting too early means you’ll miss out on peak sweetness and juice. Wait too long and you risk the melons splitting or rotting on the vine.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn pro tips and techniques for identifying when sugar baby watermelons reach ideal ripeness for harvesting

Overview of Sugar Baby Watermelons

Sugar baby watermelons are a type of icebox or personal-sized melon They are a miniaturized version of traditional watermelons, with ripe fruits averaging 8-10 pounds each

These petite melons earned the name “sugar baby” for their higher sugar content and intense sweetness. When ripe, they have a signature dark green rind and crisp, bright red interior flesh.

Compared to larger watermelon varieties, sugar babies take less time to reach maturity. They are ready for harvesting typically 70-85 days from when seedlings are transplanted outdoors. This makes them a great option for gardeners in northern climates with shorter growing seasons.

Checking Tendrils for Ripeness

One of the most accurate ways to gauge ripeness in watermelons is to inspect the tendrils. Tendrils are the thin, curling vines that extend off the main watermelon stem.

• Look for the tendril located closest to where each melon is growing.

• Check its color. The tendril will turn brown and dry up as the melon ripens.

• If the tendril is completely dried out and brown, your sugar baby is likely at peak ripeness for harvesting.

• If it’s still green, leave the melon longer to allow further ripening.

Listening for a Deep Hollow Thump

Your ears can also help determine when sugar baby watermelons are ready for picking. As fruits ripen, they develop air pockets that create a hollow sound when thumped.

• Gently cup one hand around the melon to amplify the sound.

• With your other hand, tap the melon.

• A ripe melon will produce a deep, hollow “thunk” reverberation.

• Underripe melons sound more flat and dull.

• This thumping test works best when done on the bottom ground spot.

Checking for Yellowing of Ground Spot

Sugar baby watermelons develop a pale yellow or cream-colored spot on the underside as they ripen. This is where the melon sits on the soil, known as the ground or belly spot.

• Lift each melon up to inspect its ground spot color.

• Ripe melons will show rich yellow or creamy hues.

• If the ground spot remains white or light green, leave the fruit longer to ripen further.

• Looking for yellowing is a reliable way to test for ripeness.

Monitoring Weight and Full Round Shape

The size and shape of sugar baby watermelons can indicate maturity. Monitor their development and harvest when fruits reach expected dimensions:

• Sugar babies should fill out to a rounded, symmetrical shape when ripe.

• Lopsided or elongated melons may need more time on the vines.

• Ripe fruits will weigh around 8-10 pounds on average.

• Weigh melons periodically as they grow to check for proper weight.

• Pick fully rounded, evenly shaped melons at the ideal 8-10 pound size.

Inspecting Rind Texture and Color

Subtle changes in the rind’s texture and appearance offer visual clues to ripeness:

• Mature sugar baby rinds will be solid deep green, without white splotches.

• They lose surface shine and take on a dull, matte look when ripe.

• Press gently on the rind with a fingernail near the ground spot. If indentation occurs, that’s a sign of ripeness.

• Hard, glossy rinds that resist denting indicate melons are not yet ready for harvesting.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

While harvesting sugar baby watermelons, steer clear of these common mistakes:

• Picking too early – They won’t ripen or sweeten further after picking.

• Waiting too long – Overripe melons can crack, rot, or attract pests.

• Rough handling – Drops and bumps lead to bruising and quicker spoilage.

• Leaving in hot sun – Heat accelerates deterioration after harvest. Move to a shaded area.

Mastering the Harvesting Process

Once you confirm ripeness using these reliable techniques, it’s time to pick your sugar babies! Follow these steps for successful harvesting:

1. Use a Sharp Knife or Pruners

• Cut melons from vines using a clean, sharp knife or gardening pruners.

• Make a smooth, precise cut to avoid damaging fruits.

2. Leave Stems Attached

• Leave about 2 inches of stem attached to each melon when harvesting.

• Stems prevent rotting from bacteria entering at the cut site.

3. Handle with Care

• Carry and move harvested melons gently to prevent bruising.

• Cradle each melon in both hands or use a sling to transport.

4. Move Out of Direct Sun

• Bring freshly picked melons into shade or indoors soon after cutting.

• Prevent sun scalding and accelerated deterioration.

5. Enjoy ASAP for Best Flavor

• Plan to eat or refrigerate ripe sugar baby watermelons within 1-2 weeks.

• Maximum sweetness and texture is achieved immediately after harvest.

Now that you know what to look for when checking for ripeness and how to pick sugar baby watermelons successfully, you can enjoy harvesting perfect melons from your garden! Use this complete guide to identify peak ripeness and master the art of harvesting these petite, sweet fruits.