Other types, such as some burpless or Oriental varieties, can reach ripeness at nearly 15 inches. Ferretti says the longer cucumber types are ripe when they retain a hint of the ridges and spinyness associated with immature cucumbers. If it's inflated to a perfect smoothness, it's too far gone. Estimate ripeness by comparing the crop to the size and shape described on the seed package or catalog. The stem and cap should be mint green or purple, depending on the type.
Most melons are perfectly ripe when they separate from the vine easily.
Other melon types are ripe when they turn from a greenish hue to a more yellow or orange color. Each watermelon will have a pigtailed tendril of growth near the stem. The underside should be slightly yellow. Inside, the seeds will be deep brown to black, not light tan. Ferretti says two blunt-nosed carrot types, Danvers and Nantes, grow well in Pennsylvania's dense soils.