If you’re looking to add a pop of sunshine to your fruit bowl, finding a yellow watermelon is a fantastic idea! These golden-fleshed beauties offer a slightly sweeter, sometimes honey-like flavor compared to their more common red cousins, and they’re definitely a conversation starter at any gathering. They’re not just pretty. they’re packed with vitamins A and C, and the antioxidant beta-carotene, which gives them their vibrant color. While red watermelons boast lycopene, yellow watermelons shine with beta-carotene, making both great, healthy choices.
the first time I stumbled upon a yellow watermelon, I was so intrigued! I grabbed one, took it home, and when I cut into it, the bright yellow flesh was such a delightful surprise. It was a bit sweeter than I expected, with this subtle, almost apricot or honey note to it. Ever since then, I’ve been on the lookout, and I’ve learned a few tricks to track them down. They used to be a little hard to find, but as more people get curious about this sunny fruit, they’re popping up in more places. So, if you’re ready to switch things up from the usual red, here’s everything you need to know about where to buy yellow watermelon.
Local Grocery Stores: Your First Stop
Your regular grocery store is often the first and easiest place to check for yellow watermelons, especially during their peak season. Many major chains are starting to stock them more regularly.
Major Supermarket Chains
- Kroger: I’ve heard from a lot of people, and even seen online, that Kroger often carries yellow watermelons. They sometimes have them on sale, which is a great bonus! It’s worth checking their produce section or their weekly ad. You might even find coupons for them.
- Whole Foods Market: If you’re looking for organic or specialty produce, Whole Foods is a solid bet. They often have both full-sized and mini yellow watermelons in stock. Just remember to check their produce section, as availability can vary.
- Walmart: While it might not always be a guarantee, Walmart occasionally stocks yellow watermelons, particularly during the summer. It’s worth a quick look in their seasonal fruit displays.
- Trader Joe’s: Many folks report finding yellow watermelons at Trader Joe’s during the summer months. They’re known for their unique and seasonal offerings, so definitely keep an eye out there.
Quick Tip: The best way to find yellow watermelon in stock at these stores is to call ahead or use their online inventory checkers if they have them. This saves you a trip! Remember, availability can be quite seasonal, so if you’re trying to find yellow watermelon near me, summer is your best bet.
Farmers Markets & Local Stands: Fresh from the Farm
If you want the freshest yellow watermelon and love supporting local growers, farmers markets and roadside stands are absolutely fantastic options.
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Why Farmers Markets are Great
Local farmers often grow a wider variety of produce that you might not find in big chain stores, and yellow watermelon is one of those unique items. You’ll get to talk directly to the farmers, who can tell you about their specific varieties, growing methods, and when their yellow watermelons are at their peak. For example, in places like Sacramento, people have recommended checking out local farms like Takamari Farms for their super sweet yellow watermelons.
- How to Find Them: Look up local farmers markets in your area. Websites like LocalHarvest.org or your city’s official tourism site usually list market locations and operating hours. Don’t be shy to ask vendors if they grow or plan to grow yellow watermelons – they might even take requests! You might even find local delivery services from farms that offer fresh produce delivery.
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Specialty Food Stores: Hidden Gems
Beyond your typical supermarkets, certain specialty stores are more likely to carry unique produce like yellow watermelons.
Asian Markets and Gourmet Stores
Many Asian grocery stores, like Weee!, are excellent places to find yellow watermelons, sometimes even with free delivery options. These markets often cater to a diverse clientele and stock a broader range of fruits and vegetables that are popular in various cuisines. Gourmet food shops or upscale independent grocers are also good candidates, as they often pride themselves on offering unique and high-quality produce.
Online Retailers & Delivery Services: Convenience at Your Fingertips
If you’re struggling to find yellow watermelon locally or prefer the convenience of home delivery, online options are becoming increasingly popular.
Produce Delivery Services
Services like Instacart and DoorDash sometimes list yellow watermelons, especially during peak season, allowing you to get them delivered right to your door. Online Asian supermarkets, like Weee!, are known for carrying yellow watermelons and offering nationwide free shipping with low minimums, often with prices cheaper than retail stores. In Australia, you can find pre-cut yellow seedless watermelon online at GoodZay.com.au. For larger quantities, Umall, an online Asian supermarket in Australia, offers extra-large yellow flesh watermelons.
Considerations for Online Purchase
- Freshness: While convenient, always check reviews for freshness and delivery quality when ordering perishable items online.
- Shipping Costs: Some services might have delivery fees, though many offer free shipping with a minimum order.
Where to Buy Yellow Watermelon Seeds: Grow Your Own
If you have a green thumb and love gardening, growing your own yellow watermelon from seeds is an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s a great way to ensure you always have fresh, delicious yellow watermelon on hand, and you get to pick the exact variety you want! Where to Find Your Perfect Refreshment Near You
Online Seed Retailers
There are many reputable online seed companies that offer a variety of yellow watermelon seeds. Some popular varieties include ‘Yellow Crimson’ and ‘Mountain Sweet Yellow’. ‘Mountain Sweet Yellow’ is an heirloom variety known for its sweetness and large size, with origins tracing back to the 1800s. You can find a good selection of yellow watermelon seeds on platforms like Amazon or specialized gardening websites.
Local Garden Centers
During planting season late spring to early summer, local garden centers and nurseries might carry yellow watermelon seeds or even young plants. This is a great opportunity to ask local experts for advice on growing conditions in your area.
Tips for Growing Yellow Watermelon
- Planting Time: Plant seeds in late spring to early summer when soil temperatures are consistently above 18°C 65°F, as watermelons love warmth for germination and growth.
- Soil: They thrive in sunny spots with well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Mix in compost or well-rotted manure a few weeks before planting, as they are heavy feeders.
- Harvesting: Mountain Sweet Yellow watermelons are typically ready in 90-100 days. Look for a dried tendril near the stem and a hollow sound when tapped. The underside should turn a creamy yellow.
Regional Availability: UK, Australia, NZ, and Toronto
Yellow watermelons are available in various parts of the world, though finding them might require a bit more searching in some regions.
United Kingdom UK
In the UK, you might find yellow watermelons at larger supermarkets like Tesco, often under specific branding like “Jaffa Yellow Flesh Watermelon” during certain times of the year. Marks & Spencer M&S also lists Yellow Flesh Watermelon as a “showstopper” in their Foodhalls. Specialty online exotic fruit suppliers, such as Exotic Fruits, offer fresh yellow watermelon with next-day delivery across the UK. Online organic delivery services like Riverford might also carry organic mini yellow watermelons. Where to Buy Wallpaper: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Wallcovering
Australia
For those in Australia, yellow watermelons are definitely on the market! You can find varieties like ‘Tropical Sunshine RZ’, which is praised for its texture, color, and sweetness.
- Coles: I’ve seen indications that Coles might stock yellow watermelons, though availability can be intermittent, so check their online store or in-person.
- Woolworths: Similar to Coles, Woolworths in Australia and NZ can be a good place to check, though availability of the yellow variety can fluctuate.
- Online: GoodZay.com.au offers pre-cut yellow seedless watermelon, and Umall, Australia’s largest online Asian supermarket, has extra-large yellow flesh watermelons.
New Zealand NZ
In New Zealand, yellow watermelons are available, sometimes referred to as “Golden Watermelon.”
- Woolworths NZ: You might find “Fresh Fruit Watermelon Yellow Seedless” at Woolworths NZ, though it might show as unavailable if it’s out of season or sold out.
- Local Markets/Specialty Stores: Smaller, independent fruit shops like Little Foragers Market list yellow watermelon. Healthy n Fresh in Auckland also lists “Watermelon Yellow Flesh Loose.” Twisted Citrus, an online fruit supplier, has offered “Golden Watermelon” in the past, but notes it can be out of season or sold out.
Toronto, Canada
Finding yellow watermelons in Toronto generally follows the same advice as for other North American cities:
- Major Grocery Chains: Check larger grocery stores like Loblaws, Metro, or Longo’s during the summer months. They often carry a wider variety of seasonal produce.
- Specialty Markets: Asian grocery stores in areas like Markham, Scarborough, or downtown Toronto are good places to look.
- Farmers Markets: Explore local farmers markets, especially those with vendors specializing in diverse produce, to find yellow watermelon in Toronto.
Seasonal Availability: When to Look for Yellow Watermelon
Timing is everything when it comes to fresh produce, and yellow watermelons are no exception. Knowing their season will significantly increase your chances of finding them.
Yellow watermelons generally share the same peak season as red watermelons, which is summer. You’ll have the easiest time finding the best-tasting melons from late spring to early fall, roughly from May to September. During these months, grocery stores, farmers markets, and online retailers are much more likely to have them in stock. Outside of this window, they can be trickier to find, often requiring a visit to specialty stores or online ordering. Where to Buy Vending Machines: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Started
Tips for Choosing a Ripe Yellow Watermelon
Picking a good watermelon, whether red or yellow, is an art! You want that perfect balance of sweetness and juiciness. Here’s what I always look for:
- The Field Spot: This is probably the most important indicator. Look for a creamy yellow or even orange-yellow spot on one side of the melon. This is where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun. If it’s white or green, it was likely picked too early.
- Heavy for its Size: A ripe watermelon should feel heavier than it looks. This indicates it’s full of water and juicy goodness.
- Dull, Not Shiny: The rind should generally be dull, not glossy. A shiny rind often means it’s underripe.
- Tap Test Thump Test: Give the watermelon a good thump with your knuckles. You’re listening for a deep, hollow sound. If it sounds dull or dense, it might not be as ripe or juicy. This one takes a bit of practice!
- Dried Tendril/Stem: If the stem or the tendril closest to it is dried and yellow-brown, it usually means the melon ripened fully on the vine before being picked.
- Shape: Rounder watermelons are often sweeter and less watery than oval-shaped ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does yellow watermelon taste like compared to red watermelon?
Yellow watermelon is generally described as being slightly sweeter than its red counterpart, often with subtle hints of honey or apricot. While red watermelon can have a tangier, sometimes cucumber-like note, yellow watermelon has a denser, less watery flesh.
Is yellow watermelon natural, or is it genetically modified?
Yellow watermelon is completely natural! It’s a naturally occurring variety of Citrullus lanatus, the same species as traditional red watermelon, and has been cultivated for centuries. The yellow color comes from beta-carotene, the same pigment found in carrots and sweet potatoes, which red watermelons lack red watermelons get their color from lycopene. In fact, yellow watermelons are believed to be older than red-fleshed types.
What are the health benefits of yellow watermelon?
Yellow watermelon is a great low-calorie snack, with only about 46 calories per cup. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are crucial for your immune system, vision, and skin health. It’s also rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A and may help protect against certain cancers and eye diseases, and improve cognitive function. Its high water content makes it great for hydration and digestion.
How do I store yellow watermelon?
You should store yellow watermelon at room temperature until it’s ripe. Once it’s ripe or if you’ve cut into it, store any remaining portions in the refrigerator. To keep cut watermelon fresh, cover the exposed flesh with baking parchment or plastic wrap, or place it face-down on a plate. It typically lasts about a week at room temperature and up to two weeks in the fridge. Where to Buy Vanilla Beans: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Pods
Can I find yellow watermelon year-round?
While you might find yellow watermelon year-round in some specialty stores or through online retailers, it’s generally most available during its peak season. Like red watermelons, yellow watermelons are in high season during the summer, usually from late spring to early fall May to September. During these months, availability will be much higher, and the quality will likely be at its best.
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