WATERMELON VARIETIES 
MATURITY 
Signs of ripeness vary with varieties and conditions. Rapping 
or snapping the melon with the fingers early in the day gives 
a sharp surface sound if green and a dull, muffled thump if the 
melon is ripe. In some cases withering of the tendril at junc- 
tion of fruit stem and vine is an indication - also yellowing 
and toughening of the spot that lies on the ground. Experts 
have little difficulty, but proficiency takes experience. 
RHODE ISLAND RED: A new shipping variety, 
very vigorous and productive. Thick, tough 
rind has medium green stripes on a light 
green Skin which yellows slightly at matu- 
rity. The solid, crisp flesh is red and of 
fine quality. Tan and brown stippled seeds. 
Normal days to maturity............eeee2. 8D 
Normal length/diameter...........11 X 8 in. 
Normal weight in pounds................. 14 
RESITSCANCE Tiers cto e's so 1c sicle sicle.c cs esce se .NONG 
SWEETHEART: An older shipping type water- 
melon, also used as a home garden variety. 
Has strong, rather thick rind, light grey- 
green with darker green veining. The flesh 
is bright red and of good quality. A heavy 
producer. Black seeds. 
Normal days to maturity...............e.. 86 
Normal length/diameter..........14 X 12 in. 
Normal weight in pounds................. 2 
RESUSLANCE aitiret- co ite vccsere wie cise ec'w e's ce «ote BNONC 
WONDERMELON: Chiefly a home and local mar- 
ket type but, with care, it can be shipped 
medium distances. The dark, glossy green 
rind is thin, with very slight ribs. Flesh 
is dark red, of good quality and very sweet. 
Large white seeds. 
Normal days to maturity..........ecseee+e80 
Normal length/diameter......... 24 X 12 in. 
Normal weight im pounds...............0. OD 
RESISUTANGE Staiec cicls c1s ie sie 0'e vis c o Retelcsirs ss NONE 
SHIPPING 
Watermelons are generally shipped in bulk - freight cars or 
trucks - without refrigeration, packed end-to-end with straw 
and 3 to 5 tiers high, depending on size and variety. Much 
experimentation on different methods of packing and loading to 
reduce breakage has taken place in recent years, and there have 
been some interesting experiences. We would be glad to give 
further information if your trade has need of it. 
LAWRENCE ROBINSON & SONS 
29 
California Grown isease-free Watermelon Seeds 
