Fun Facts:- Watermelon originated in Africa and is now grown in 96 countries.
- First harvest was 5000 years ago in Egypt.
- United States is 4th in world production and 44 states grow watermelon.
- China is first in world production.
- In 2003 California produced 595 million pounds of watermelon.
- Watermelon vines can grow to 6-8 feet in a month.
- Watermelon is still picked by hand to protect the outer rind.
- Watermelon is 92% water.
- It is actually in a vegetable family related to cucumbers, pumpkins and squash.
- It is an ideal health food with no fat or cholesterol and an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, C, fiber and potassium.
- It is a major source of lycopene, an antioxidant that helps prevent certain diseases.
- Swallowing a watermelon seed will not cause a watermelon to grow in your stomach!
Choosing the right melon:- Look for a firm, symmetrical melon with no bruises, cuts or dents
- It should feel heavy for its size
- Look for a light or yellow spot where it sat on the ground to indicate ripeness.
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