Maosu Watermelon

Maosu Watermelon

　　Maosu Watermelon is a specialty of Maosu Township, Shuyang County, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province. The watermelons from Maosu are sweet, crisp, and not overly large—making them especially suitable for small families. They ensure a satisfying treat without the risk of overindulgence.

　　“Xinhua flowers, Maosu melons.” This saying reflects how the Maosu watermelons of Shuyang have earned widespread acclaim across China for their juicy, delicious taste. People often compare Maosu watermelons to Xinjiang’s Hami melons. These watermelons are rich in sugar and vitamin C, and their exceptional nutrition is closely linked to the soil composition and unique geographical location of Maosu. The township is located in the northwest of Shuyang, on undulating land with an elevation of 5 to 22.8 meters. It stretches about 25 li from east to west and lies just southwest of Anfeng Mountain in Donghai, forming a natural wind-sheltered, sun-facing terrain. The area experiences significant day-night temperature variations and low humidity. Additionally, the soil contains trace elements such as phosphorus, manganese, potassium, calcium, and iron. The cool nighttime temperatures also greatly reduce sugar consumption... These rather unique conditions are unmatched in other regions. As early as the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, there was a popular saying in the Haizhou, Ganyu, and Shuyang areas: “Butang sweet potatoes and Maosu melons—so sweet they’ll make your teeth tingle.”