Terry Kirkpatrick, professor of plant pathology at the University of Arkansas, tests watermelon for color, texture and sugar content. A good watermelon "has to ship well, which means a thick rind and a uniform shape." Additionally, consumers want watermelon that are small enough to fit in a shopping cart or refrigerator and they do not want seeds.
Watermelon are trending toward small and seedless varieties. "Only about 2 of every 10 watermelon sold in the United States have seeds." These small melons have become more popular in recent years and have become economically attractive to growers. According to Dr. Kirkpatrick, an acre of large watermelons may yield 40,000 pounds, while an acre of small melons yields 65,000 to 80,000 pounds.
Some, however, still prefer the giant, seeded watermelon for flavor and nostalgic reasons.
To read the New York Times story, click here.
Posted: 08/19/2010
