In 2007, Congress declared July National Watermelon Month, aligning with the peak shipping season for watermelons as noted by the National Watermelon Association (NWA). The period witnesses heightened distribution activities to meet consumer demand. Watermelons, cherished for their refreshing quality and nutritional value, have seen a price increase in retail settings due to escalating on-farm input costs. Consumers now often face higher prices, with watermelons occasionally reaching up to $11. This surge in pricing reflects broader economic trends affecting the agricultural sector.
Choosing a high-quality watermelon poses challenges, with variability in taste often reported among fruits purchased from grocery stores. In contrast, farmers markets and roadside stands are preferred for their selection, with seeded varieties particularly favored for their flavor. Despite not being among the top 10 watermelon producing states, Mississippi and Arkansas cultivate significant quantities, with Mize, Mississippi, hosting the 46th annual Mississippi Watermelon Festival. Weather conditions play a crucial role in determining the quality and yield of watermelon crops, with Mississippi anticipating a promising harvest this year. Gadston Croom and his wife Megan, who allocate around 50 acres to watermelon cultivation in Lucedale, Mississippi, reported an early and satisfactory harvest this season.
Recent findings have highlighted the health benefits of watermelon consumption, including hydration, vitamins A, C, B6, potassium, and potential vascular and heart health benefits due to its amino acid and lycopene content. These nutritional attributes underscore the fruit's value beyond its taste.
California watermelons, cantaloupes, honeydews and mixed melons will arrive in grocery stores in time for the Independence Day holiday, an important marketing window melon growers and shippers strive to meet each season.
"It is critical for growers to supply melons, especially watermelons, to retailers in time for the July Fourth holiday," said Bryan Van Groningen of Van Groningen and Sons, a grower, packer and shipper of watermelons based in Manteca. "Much of the summertime watermelon demand is dependent on family consumption and people having parties and picnics."
Turlockjournal.com reports that Van Groningen, whose family grows and ships seeded, seedless and miniature watermelons to retailers in California and other states, said crews began harvesting watermelons last week near Manteca.
Source: farmprogress.com