Another indicator used at harvest include a wilted but not fully desiccated vine tendril proximal to the stem-end attachment. Destructive sampling is used to judge maturity of a population of watermelons.
Cultivars vary widely in soluble solids at maturity.
Quality Indices Watermelons should be symmetrical and uniform in appearance. The surface should be waxy and bright in appearance. Absence of scars, sunburn, transit abrasions or other surface defects or dirt. No evidence of bruising. Appears heavy for size.