Reintroducing the red-n-sweet watermelon

reintroducing the red-n-sweet watermelon 19818371-g.jpeg

Hot temperatures and sunny days mean watermelon is often on the menu. LSU AgCenter horticulturalist Kerry Heafner explains a variety developed many years ago.

The red-n-sweet watermelon was developed and released back in 1987. It was the last watermelon released from the Calhoun Research Station in Louisiana. Unlike modern varieties, the striped melon has a peculiar indentation on the blossom end.

These and others released from the research station were created for local markets. They have a very thin rind compared to those shipped out.

Heafner says that the red-n-sweet lives up to its name with a dark red, almost red velvet flesh and Brix score of more than 10.

Related Stories
The fourth-generation owner of Georgia’s Arena Acres cultivated a love for floral arts in FFA on a family farm passed down through generations.
SAE programs help FFA students build skills beyond the classroom.
Louisiana farmers say high water levels routinely threaten crops, highlighting the need for critical infrastructure and sustainability efforts in the Bayou.
Dixondale Farms produces around 900 million onion transplants each year, shipping them directly to customers and distributors across the country.
The Farm Monitor says Georgia farmers highlighted profitability and labor challenges during a Farm Bureau event with USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden.
Transporting pollinator colonies—primarily honey bee hives—is a major logistical operation in U.S. agriculture. Costs can vary widely depending on distance, fuel prices, labor, and timing.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
When it comes to truck and tractor pulling, the National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA) is a world leader as well as the sport’s oldest and most respected entity when it comes to premier competition. They host more than 280 sessions of pulling action throughout the U.S. and Canada.
The internationally-known “King of Polka,” 18-time Grammy award winner for “Best Polka Album,” and bandleader of arguably the most popular polka band in America—Jimmy Sturr—is taking to the stage for another slate of shows made for his fans and polka lovers across the country.
Madison Brown grew up on the road and now invites viewers to follow along with her as she continues to indulge her love of exploring new places, including behind-the-scenes at big events and tourist attractions, and celebrity interviews with the likes of country star Toby Keith, former NBA player Karl Malone, former MLB pitcher Greg Maddux, and “Brady Bunch” star Christopher Knight (Brown’s uncle).
“Somewhere West of Wall Street” is simply the most recent addition to the long list of noteworthy accomplishments by the Renaissance cowboy, singer-songwriter, poet, author, and show host Red Steagall. Join Red and his quarter horse, Grey Dog, as they explore the people, places, and stories of the American West.
Strong rural traditions, religion, cowboy boots, and technology collide in “Cowboy Church” — and taking part is as easy as turning on the TV! Airing Sundays on RFD Network.