Choosing a sweet, juicy watermelon doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Instead of relying only on the traditional “thump test,” look for a large creamy-yellow field spot, which shows where the melon rested on the ground as it grew. A dry, brownish stem can also be a useful sign of maturity, especially when combined with other clues.

Don’t be put off by brown web-like markings on the rind. These are usually natural scars that develop as the watermelon grows and do not automatically mean the fruit is poor quality. Also look for a watermelon that is reasonably symmetrical, firm, and free from deep cracks, bruises, or soft spots.

One of the easiest tricks is to compare several watermelons of similar size and choose the one that feels heaviest. Because watermelons contain so much water, a heavier melon for its size may be a good indication that it is juicy. A healthy, slightly dull-looking rind can also be a useful clue, although appearance varies between different varieties.

There is no completely foolproof way to know exactly how sweet a watermelon will be before cutting it open. However, checking the yellow field spot, weight, shape, stem, and overall condition can greatly improve your chances of taking home a ripe and flavorful melon. Next time you shop, a quick inspection could help you avoid choosing a pale or disappointing watermelon.READ BELOW