The square watermelon, a fruit that has garnered significant attention in recent years due to its unique shape, has left many wondering what lies within its confines. While it may seem like an ordinary watermelon at first glance, the square watermelon’s unusual shape has sparked curiosity among fruit enthusiasts and scientists alike. In this article, we will delve into the world of square watermelons, exploring their history, cultivation process, and most importantly, what’s inside.
A Brief History of Square Watermelons
The concept of square watermelons originated in Japan in the 1980s, where farmers began cultivating them as a novelty item. The idea behind growing square watermelons was to create a fruit that could be easily stored and transported, making it more convenient for consumers. The square shape also allowed for more efficient use of space, as the watermelons could be stacked on top of each other without rolling away.
The Cultivation Process
Square watermelons are grown using a specialized cultivation process that involves placing the fruit in a square mold while it is still growing on the vine. The mold is typically made of plastic or metal and is designed to apply gentle pressure to the fruit, shaping it into a square shape. The mold is usually placed on the fruit when it is about the size of a baseball, and it is left on until the fruit is fully grown.
Challenges in Cultivation
Growing square watermelons can be a challenging process, as the fruit requires careful handling and monitoring to ensure that it develops properly. The mold must be applied at the right time, and the fruit must be checked regularly to ensure that it is not becoming misshapen or developing any defects. Additionally, square watermelons are more susceptible to disease and pests, as the mold can create a humid environment that fosters the growth of fungi and bacteria.
The Anatomy of a Square Watermelon
So, what’s inside a square watermelon? The answer may surprise you. Despite its unusual shape, the square watermelon has the same internal structure as a traditional round watermelon.
The Rind
The rind of a square watermelon is similar to that of a round watermelon, consisting of a hard, green outer layer that protects the fruit inside. The rind is slightly thicker on a square watermelon, due to the pressure applied by the mold during cultivation.
The Flesh
The flesh of a square watermelon is made up of juicy, sweet pulp that is similar in texture and taste to that of a round watermelon. The flesh is typically pink or red in color, although some varieties may have a yellow or orange tint.
The Seeds
Square watermelons have the same type of seeds as round watermelons, which are small, black, and numerous. The seeds are dispersed throughout the flesh of the fruit and can be easily removed before eating.
Nutritional Value of Square Watermelons
Square watermelons have the same nutritional value as round watermelons, making them a healthy and refreshing snack for hot summer days. One cup of diced square watermelon contains:
- 45 calories
- 11 grams of carbohydrates
- 1 gram of protein
- 0.5 grams of fat
- 100% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C
- 20% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A
Health Benefits
Square watermelons have several health benefits, including:
- Hydration: Square watermelons are made up of about 92% water, making them an excellent source of hydration.
- Antioxidants: Square watermelons contain antioxidants that can help to protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Square watermelons have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Uses of Square Watermelons
Square watermelons can be used in a variety of ways, including:
- Eating fresh: Square watermelons can be sliced and eaten fresh, making them a refreshing snack for hot summer days.
- Salads: Square watermelons can be diced and added to salads for a burst of flavor and nutrition.
- Smoothies: Square watermelons can be blended into smoothies for a refreshing and healthy drink.
- Decorations: Square watermelons can be used as decorations for parties and special events, adding a unique and eye-catching touch to any table.
Cooking with Square Watermelons
Square watermelons can be used in a variety of recipes, including:
- Watermelon salsa: A refreshing salsa made with diced square watermelon, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro.
- Watermelon salad: A simple salad made with diced square watermelon, feta cheese, mint, and balsamic glaze.
- Watermelon smoothie: A refreshing smoothie made with blended square watermelon, yogurt, and honey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the square watermelon is a unique and fascinating fruit that has captured the attention of fruit enthusiasts and scientists alike. Despite its unusual shape, the square watermelon has the same internal structure as a traditional round watermelon, with a hard rind, juicy flesh, and numerous seeds. Square watermelons are a healthy and refreshing snack that can be used in a variety of ways, from eating fresh to cooking and decorating. Whether you’re looking for a unique addition to your salad or a refreshing snack for hot summer days, the square watermelon is definitely worth trying.
| Characteristics | Square Watermelon | Round Watermelon |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Square | Round |
| Rind | Thicker due to mold | Thin |
| Flesh | Juicy and sweet | Juicy and sweet |
| Seeds | Small and black | Small and black |
| Nutritional Value | Similar to round watermelon | High in vitamin C and A |
In summary, the square watermelon is a unique and delicious fruit that offers several benefits, from its refreshing taste to its numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a unique addition to your salad, the square watermelon is definitely worth trying.
What is a square watermelon and how is it different from regular watermelons?
A square watermelon is a type of watermelon that has been grown in a square mold to give it a unique shape. Unlike regular watermelons, which are typically round or oval in shape, square watermelons are grown to have a flat top and bottom and straight sides. This unique shape is achieved by placing the watermelon in a square mold while it is still growing on the vine.
The process of growing square watermelons is more labor-intensive than growing regular watermelons, as the mold must be carefully placed around the fruit and the fruit must be regularly checked to ensure that it is growing properly. Despite the extra effort required to grow square watermelons, they have become popular in some parts of the world, particularly in Japan, where they are often given as gifts or used as decorative centerpieces.
How are square watermelons grown and what kind of care do they require?
Square watermelons are grown using a special mold that is placed around the fruit while it is still growing on the vine. The mold is typically made of plastic or metal and is designed to give the watermelon a square shape. The mold is placed around the fruit when it is still small, and as the fruit grows, it is regularly checked to ensure that it is growing properly and that the mold is not causing any damage to the fruit.
To grow square watermelons, farmers must provide the plants with full sun, well-drained soil, and adequate water. The plants must also be regularly fertilized and pruned to promote healthy growth. In addition, the mold must be regularly cleaned and checked to ensure that it is not causing any damage to the fruit. With proper care and attention, square watermelons can be grown to be just as sweet and juicy as regular watermelons.
What are the benefits of growing square watermelons?
One of the main benefits of growing square watermelons is that they can be more easily stored and transported than regular watermelons. Because of their unique shape, square watermelons can be stacked on top of each other, making them easier to store and transport. This can be particularly beneficial for farmers who need to transport their watermelons long distances to market.
Another benefit of growing square watermelons is that they can be more easily displayed and sold. Because of their unique shape, square watermelons can be displayed in a way that is visually appealing, making them more attractive to customers. This can be particularly beneficial for farmers who sell their watermelons at farmers’ markets or through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.
Are square watermelons more expensive than regular watermelons?
Yes, square watermelons are typically more expensive than regular watermelons. This is because the process of growing square watermelons is more labor-intensive than growing regular watermelons. The mold must be carefully placed around the fruit, and the fruit must be regularly checked to ensure that it is growing properly. This extra labor and attention to detail can drive up the cost of square watermelons.
In addition, square watermelons are often grown in smaller quantities than regular watermelons, which can also drive up their cost. Because of their unique shape and the extra labor required to grow them, square watermelons are often sold as a specialty item, which can command a higher price. However, for many people, the unique shape and novelty of square watermelons make them worth the extra cost.
Can I grow my own square watermelon at home?
Yes, it is possible to grow your own square watermelon at home. To do so, you will need to purchase a square watermelon mold, which can be found online or at some gardening stores. You will also need to purchase watermelon seeds and plant them in a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil.
To grow a square watermelon, simply place the mold around the fruit when it is still small, and regularly check to ensure that it is growing properly. You will also need to provide the plant with adequate water and fertilizer, and regularly prune it to promote healthy growth. With proper care and attention, you should be able to grow a square watermelon at home.
How do square watermelons taste compared to regular watermelons?
Square watermelons taste the same as regular watermelons. The unique shape of square watermelons does not affect their flavor or texture. They are still sweet and juicy, with a refreshing flavor that is perfect for hot summer days.
In fact, many people find that square watermelons are just as sweet and flavorful as regular watermelons. The growing process for square watermelons is the same as for regular watermelons, so the flavor and texture of the fruit are not affected by the mold. Whether you prefer the unique shape of square watermelons or the traditional shape of regular watermelons, you can be sure that you will get the same great taste.
Are square watermelons available in stores and markets?
Square watermelons are not as widely available as regular watermelons, but they can be found in some stores and markets. They are often sold as a specialty item, particularly in Japan, where they are popular as gifts or decorative centerpieces.
In the United States, square watermelons may be harder to find, but they can sometimes be found at specialty grocery stores or farmers’ markets. If you are interested in trying a square watermelon, you may need to search online or check with local farmers to see if they are available in your area.