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
Georgia Farm Bureau event focuses on leadership, connection, and opportunities in agriculture
Labor supply may shift, but uncertainty remains for producers.
University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture students traveled to Italy to study Roman and medieval construction, gaining a unique global educational experience.
Natalie Roy from AgriSafe Network talks about women’s role in agriculture and the increasing need to address their unique health and safety needs as they form a larger part of the workforce.
A Nebraska rancher says his land may not support cattle this year after 2,000 acres were burned in recent devastating wildfires across the state.
Farmer John Jenkinson shares the latest on planting conditions in Kansas and what producers are facing this season.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
“Green Acres” meets “Home Improvement” in this refreshing, informative unscripted lifestyle series depicting the hilarious adventures of a suburban family gone rural.
Each week, “Rural Heritage” on RFD Network features stories of farmers borrowing from yesterday to do today’s work.
Expert gearheads Kevin Byrd and Willie B have a wealth of technical knowledge and a passion to share it each week on Two Guys Garage.
Join host Allen Treadwell and the Hayden Outdoors crew plus landowners across the country as we bring you exciting adventures on the land with the most amazing properties for sale and learn what it means to broker these magnificent properties.
“Today’s Wild West” is a documentary-style, half-hour TV seres on all-things-Western: horseback adventures, cattle drives, dude ranches, Western art, artisans, music, movies, historic sites, Native American culture and more.