How to Know When a Black Diamond Watermelon Is Ready to Pick

Black diamond watermelons are an heirloom variety of watermelon known for their massive size, weighing up to 50 pounds, and their sweet, juicy flesh. Their dark, blue-green-black rinds and red flesh make them visually striking and highly sought after by gardeners.

Characteristics of Black Diamond Watermelons

Black diamond watermelons are characterized by their:

• Large size, with fruits commonly exceeding 30 pounds and reaching up to 50 pounds.
• Dark, blue-green-black rind that lacks the stripes commonly seen in other watermelon varieties.
• Bright red, sweet, and juicy flesh with a crisp texture.
• Long growing season, requiring approximately 90 days from planting to harvest.

Growth and Maturation of Black Diamond Watermelons

Black diamond watermelons thrive in warm, sunny climates with well-drained soil. They require:

• Full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours daily.
• Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
• Regular watering to maintain consistent soil moisture.
• Adequate spacing between plants to allow for proper vine growth.

Signs of Ripeness

Determining the ripeness of black diamond watermelons is crucial for harvesting them at their peak flavor and sweetness. Several indicators signal ripeness:

• Skin Color and Texture: The rind of a ripe black diamond watermelon should be dark, blue-green-black and dull in appearance. The skin should also be slightly rough and resistant to piercing with a fingernail.
• Field Spot: The field spot, where the watermelon rests on the ground, should turn from white to a creamy yellow color as the fruit matures.
• Stem Attachment: The stem should be dry and brown, indicating that the watermelon has stopped receiving nutrients from the vine.
• Size and Weight: Black diamond watermelons typically weigh between 30 and 50 pounds when fully ripe.

Tapping and Thumping Technique

The tapping and thumping technique is commonly used to assess the ripeness of watermelons, including black diamond varieties.

• Gently tap the watermelon with your fingers. A ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound.
• Thump the watermelon with your hand. A ripe watermelon will vibrate slightly and produce a low, dull thud.

The Field Spot Test

The field spot test is another reliable indicator of ripeness.

• Examine the field spot, which is the area where the watermelon rests on the ground.
• As the watermelon matures, the field spot will change from white to a creamy yellow color.
• A bright yellow field spot indicates that the watermelon is fully ripe.

Stem Attachment

The stem attachment provides valuable clues about the ripeness of a black diamond watermelon.

• A dry, brown, and shriveled stem indicates that the watermelon is ripe and has stopped receiving nutrients from the vine.
• A green or fresh-looking stem suggests that the watermelon is not yet fully ripe.

Size and Weight Considerations

Black diamond watermelons are known for their impressive size.

• A fully ripe black diamond watermelon typically weighs between 30 and 50 pounds.
• Watermelons that are significantly smaller or larger than this range may not be fully mature.

Harvesting Black Diamond Watermelons

Harvesting black diamond watermelons at the right time ensures optimal flavor and quality.

• Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the watermelon from the vine, leaving a short stem attached.
• Handle the watermelon gently to avoid bruising or damaging the fruit.

Storing and Enjoying Black Diamond Watermelons

Proper storage and handling are essential to preserve the quality and flavor of black diamond watermelons.

• Store ripe watermelons in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.
• Watermelons can be stored for up to two weeks under ideal conditions.
• Enjoy black diamond watermelons fresh, sliced, or juiced for a refreshing and delicious treat.

Conclusion

Black diamond watermelons are a unique and flavorful variety that can be successfully grown with proper care and attention. By understanding the signs of ripeness and following the recommended harvesting and storage techniques, gardeners can enjoy the sweet and juicy rewards of this exceptional watermelon.

References:

1. Erica Puisis. (2023, June 22). How to Grow and Care for Black Diamond Watermelons. The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/black-diamond-watermelon-guide-5195320
2. Dawn Gibbs. (n.d.). How to Tell When a Black Diamond Watermelon Is Ripe. eHow. https://www.ehow.com/how_8257274_tell-black-diamond-watermelon-ripe.html
3. Tonya Barnett. (2021, February 23). Black Diamond Melon Care: Growing Black Diamond Watermelon Plants. Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/watermelon/growing-black-diamond-watermelons.htm

FAQs

How can you tell if a black diamond watermelon is ripe?

There are several signs of ripeness to look for in black diamond watermelons:

• Skin Color and Texture: The rind should be dark, blue-green-black and dull in appearance, with a slightly rough texture.
• Field Spot: The field spot, where the watermelon rests on the ground, should turn from white to a creamy yellow color.
• Stem Attachment: The stem should be dry and brown, indicating that the watermelon has stopped receiving nutrients from the vine.
• Size and Weight: Black diamond watermelons typically weigh between 30 and 50 pounds when fully ripe.

What is the tapping and thumping technique for checking ripeness?

The tapping and thumping technique involves:

• Gently tapping the watermelon with your fingers. A ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound.
• Thumping the watermelon with your hand. A ripe watermelon will vibrate slightly and produce a low, dull thud.

What is the field spot test for ripeness?

The field spot test involves examining the field spot, where the watermelon rests on the ground:

• As the watermelon matures, the field spot will change from white to a creamy yellow color.
• A bright yellow field spot indicates that the watermelon is fully ripe.

How do you know if a black diamond watermelon is ripe by looking at the stem?

The stem attachment can provide clues about ripeness:

• A dry, brown, and shriveled stem indicates that the watermelon is ripe and has stopped receiving nutrients from the vine.
• A green or fresh-looking stem suggests that the watermelon is not yet fully ripe.

What is the average size and weight of a ripe black diamond watermelon?

Black diamond watermelons are known for their impressive size:

• A fully ripe black diamond watermelon typically weighs between 30 and 50 pounds.