There are over 1200 species of watermelon in the world and the Sweet Beauty watermelon is one of the many varieties grown in the United States.
What sets it apart from other varieties of the iconic summer fruit? It’s the sweetness and texture, and a name that hints at the pleasure you’ll experience eating it.
Read on to learn more about what makes this Beauty stand out.
What’s in a Name?
Watermelons are native to northeastern Africa and thousands of years old. The wild variety of the fruit was often hard and bland-tasting. However, they were still valued for their water content. This made them an ideal substitute for contaminated water sources.
Sweeter varieties emerged with each generation. This resulted in the hybrids we enjoy today. Sweet Beauty is one of them and it’s likely the name came from the flavor and appearance of the melon’s flesh.
Characteristics of the Sweet Beauty Watermelon
The Sweet Beauty watermelon is considered an icebox watermelon. This type of watermelon is smaller and considered a single serving. They’re usually no heavier than 15 pounds.
Sweet Beauty watermelons usually weigh between five to seven pounds. They’re oblong with dark green coloring, tinged with lighter green stripes. They have deep red flesh, often described as ruby red.
If the depth of color indicates the level of sweetness, the flavor of the Sweet Beauty watermelon comes as no surprise.
Its Brix measurement of 12 to 14% along with its crisp, almost crunchy texture makes this watermelon a delight to eat.
Adding This Beauty to Your Diet
The Sweet Beauty watermelon is a healthy snack that you can add to any menu. When chilled and cut into cubes it’s an enjoyable treat for the entire family on a hot summer day. It also makes a refreshing dessert after dinner.
But you don’t have to limit yourself to slices or cubes. There are many interesting recipes to try, including beverages.
Salads
Watermelon salads often combine the sweetness of the watermelon with savory elements. Try pairing Sweet Beauty with cucumber and feta for a delicious watermelon cucumber salad.
An even simpler variation would be a watermelon feta salad.
Soups
Soup may not be what comes to mind for this summer fruit, but Sweet Beauty makes a great watermelon gazpacho! This recipe combines sweet and savory ingredients. The addition of spices gives it a pleasant kick.
Dips
Chips and salsa are often a staple when entertaining. Imagine what a conversation starter watermelon salsa would be! It’s a simple recipe that’s a great topping over nachos and cheese.
Beverages
There are about as many watermelon beverages as there are watermelon varieties. Adding Sweet Beauty watermelon to any of these is sure to create a sweet surprise:
- Watermelon Agua Fresca
- Watermelon Lemonade
- Watermelon Margarita
- Watermelon Slushie
- Watermelon Mojito
These are just a few options. Why not create your signature recipe?
Health Benefits of the Sweet Beauty Watermelon
Sweet Beauty watermelons have a lot of nutritional value. This is regardless of how you consume it.
Water
Watermelons contain at least 92% water. Sweet Beauty is a great source of hydration, but not recommended as a replacement for drinking water.
Lycopene
Like other red-colored fruits and vegetables, the rich red hue of the Sweet Beauty watermelon’s flesh contains lycopene.
Lycopene is an antioxidant that’s great for the heart. It also protects from sun damage and reduces the risk of certain forms of cancer.
Vitamins
Watermelons contain Vitamins A, B6, and C. These can boost immunity, and improve vision and growth.
Vitamin B6 also helps with brain development. Vitamin C protects, cells, blood, bones, and skin.
Other Nutrients
Watermelon juice also contains certain types of amino acids, including l-citrulline. Drinking watermelon juice before exercising can reduce muscle pain after a workout.
Interested in learning other ways watermelon is good for you? Read our blog post on the health benefits of watermelon.
Growing Sweet Beauty Watermelon at Home
Watermelons are grown in more than 30 states. They’re available in grocery stores beginning in late spring and into the early autumn. Because it’s not grown commercially, chances are slim that you’ll find Sweet Beauty in your local produce department.
However, planting it in your home garden can guarantee you have Sweet Beauty watermelon to enjoy every summer.
Planting
Watermelon seeds grow best if planted as the weather gets warmer. Use a mixture of soil, fertilizer, compost, and manure for the best results.
Our blog post on 8 Easy Steps for Planting Watermelon will explain and guide you through the process!
Growing
Watermelons require space to thrive when growing. The soil they’re in should also drain fairly easily. This prevents the seeds or plant from becoming waterlogged.
For the best results, check out our comprehensive Watermelon Growing Guide for all you need to know.
Common Diseases and Pests
Some of the more common watermelon diseases are Bacterial Fruit Blotch and Leaf Mosaic.
Unfortunately, there are at least five others covered in our Watermelon Diseases blog post. You’ll want to know how to spot them and what to do as they can all be detrimental to your watermelon plants.
Pests such as aphids and leafminers can also pose a problem. Our blog post on Watermelon Pests is a must-read! Knowing how to identify them early can help save your plants and your future watermelons.
Knowing When to Harvest Them
The reward for overcoming all the growing issues is harvesting your watermelons! They’ll take about a month and a half before they’re ready for harvesting. Each plant may have at least two to four fruit.
Make sure you read our Watermelon Harvesting blog post to know exactly when your Sweet Beauties are at their peak ripeness.
Where You Can Purchase Seeds
Sweet Beauty hybrid watermelon seeds are available via several sites. We recommend the amazing selection of seeds available at one of our favorite online retailers, True Leaf Market.
From Seed to Sweet Beauty Watermelon
The US produces millions of pounds of watermelons every year. With varieties such as the Sweet Beauty watermelon that provide the perfect blend of taste and texture, it’s easy to understand the popularity of this fruit.
Sweet Beauty is also easy to grow in your backyard. Once harvested, you can amaze your family and friends with some interesting dishes or simply enjoy it by the slice.
To learn even more about how to grow and care for all kinds of watermelons, visit our Watermelon Plants page for blog posts and helpful guides.