Hualien’s Giant Watermelons: Limited-Edition “Green Diamond” This Summer – 3 Tips to Pick the Best

▲ Hualien’s giant watermelons are sweet, juicy, and famed as the “Green Diamond.” (Photo / Provided by Hualien County Government)

Reported by Lin Yuying / Comprehensive Report

Hualien’s giant watermelons are sweet, juicy, and famed as the “Green Diamond.” This year, due to unusual weather conditions, their harvest is delayed by 1 to 2 weeks compared to previous years. The first batch is expected to gradually hit the market in late May. We’ve got 3 tips to help you pick the best watermelons, and we also suggest not storing them in the fridge for too long — they’re best enjoyed about three days after harvest for peak flavor.

Luo Wenlong, Director of the Agriculture Department of Hualien County Government, stated that Hualien County has an annual watermelon cultivation area of approximately 2,204 hectares, with a total annual production of 48,526 metric tons, ranking first in all of Taiwan. The main growing areas are located in well-drained gravel riverbeds along the Xiuguluan River, Wanli River, Papaya River, and Hualien River within the county. Major townships include Fenglin Township, Shoufeng Township, Yuli Township, Ruisui Township, and Daren Township.

Director Luo pointed out that the primary variety of Hualien’s giant watermelons this year is the “Huabao Watermelon,” with an average weight of about 25 to 28 Taiwanese jin (approximately 15 to 17 kg) per melon. Due to the impact of abnormal weather, the first batch of watermelons this year is expected to start appearing on the market in late May and will continue for about a month. The ripening of watermelons is absolutely related to temperature. For example, the Huabao Watermelon requires an accumulated temperature of around 1,000 degrees to fully mature. As a result, Hualien’s peak-season giant watermelons usually start appearing first in southern areas such as Yuli Township, and then gradually move northward.

▲ Due to weather impacts, this year’s Hualien giant watermelons are delayed by 1 to 2 weeks. (Photo / Provided by Hualien County Government)

Thanks to their superior quality and excellent reputation, Hualien watermelons often receive pre-orders even before they hit the market, reflecting the high level of public anticipation. The agriculture department advises consumers who wish to buy Hualien-grown watermelons to pay attention to the following selection tips:

1. A well-shaped, plump fruit with a fresh-looking stem indicates it was recently harvested.
2. A smooth rind with appropriately open stripes means the fruit is more mature.
3. Hold the watermelon with both hands on either side, then gently tap it with one hand. A properly ripe watermelon will produce a deep, resonant sound, similar to tapping your chest; if the sound is too sharp and solid, it may be underripe; if the sound is overly dull, it may be overripe.

Additionally, to enjoy the premium, sandy-sweet taste of Hualien’s giant watermelons, it’s recommended not to store them in the fridge for too long — they’re best eaten about three days after harvest. Watermelons belong to the plant species Citrullus lanatus, originally from Africa, hence the name “Western” melon. Today, there are many varieties, typically with smooth green or yellow rinds featuring stripes. When consumed in moderation, they can relieve summer heat, quench thirst, and act as a diuretic. Rich in various nutrients essential to the human body — including vitamins A, C, B1, B6, potassium, and magnesium — they are hailed as the “King of Fruits.”

Hualien watermelons will soon be available on the market, and related promotional events will also be held. The public is welcome to purchase them through various channels. Consumers can contact the “Hualien County Agricultural Products Promotion Association” for more information, or visit major retail locations such as RT-Mart, Carrefour, A-mart, PX Mart, Wellcome, Costo, or local farmers' associations. They can also call the Hualien County Agriculture Department at 03-8232509 for details.