Question
This year I planted sugar baby watermelon for the first time. Rather than cutting one open, is there any way to know they are ripe before you harvest? We have had a very wet season in Southern New England this year. How will that effect my results?

Answer
Patrick:
I've answered this question a few times before, but here goes:

There are two ways to determine if a watermelon is ripe, and neither is foolproof. I like to use both methods to increase my chances.

1) Look at the tendril closest to the stem. It should be brown and shriveled.
2) Check the "ground spot". This is naturally, the spot where the melon touches the ground. It should be yellow. If not, return the melon to the same spot so you can check it in a few days.

As for the rain, it might make the melons a bit mealy and less sweet, but watermelon do like a lot of water, so it might not hurt them at all. I guess it depends on how much rain there was.