Embracing Innovation and Flavour

The recent Watermelon & Melon Day hosted by Rijk Zwaan South Africa at Maroi Farms in Musina was a celebration of innovation, flavour, and the promise of a vibrant new season. It was a gathering that brought together growers, Fresh Produce Market Agents, and retail representatives, offering them a firsthand experience with the latest varieties presented by Rijk Zwaan South Africa.

Diverse Varieties filled with flavour in Focus

At the heart of the showcase were three standout varieties absolutely fbursting with flavour – Morgan RZ F1, Tropical Sunshine, and Tropical Honey. Each variety boasted its distinct characteristics, promising a medley of flavours and textures that captivated the senses. Morgan RZ F1, renowned for its sweetness and crispness, stood tall among watermelon enthusiasts. Showing consistent size and renowned pace of production. Meanwhile, Tropical Sunshine and Tropical Honey beckoned with their, striking firm, yellow flesh and, succulent sweetness, promising a delightfully new watermelon experience bursting with flavour.

Sweet Innovation: Candyball

Among the stars of the event was the eagerly awaited Candyball, Rijk Zwaan’s latest addition in the world of watermelons. This is a personal-sized watermelon and packs a punch of sweetness and juiciness. It delivers an indulgent experience in a perfectly proportioned package. Its arrival on the scene stirred excitement among attendees, representing the fusion of innovation, flavour and convenience.

Growers’ Insights and Enthusiasm

For the growers present, the day wasn’t just about perusing fields of promising crops; it was an immersive experience in assessing the potential of these varieties. Conversations buzzed around yield, disease resistance, and the market potential of these new offerings, and of course taste. The growers’ enthusiasm and insightful interactions with Rijk Zwaan experts underscored the pivotal role these varieties might play in their upcoming harvests.

Market Agents and Retail Perspectives

Fresh Produce Market Agents and retail representatives, ever attuned to consumer preferences, had their fingers on the pulse of market demand. Engaging with these novel varieties allowed them to gauge potential consumer interest, recognizing the allure of sweetness, aroma, and the convenience of personal-sized watermelons like Candyball. Their presence reinforced the essential link between cultivation and consumer satisfaction.

Tasting the Future

A highlight of the day was the tasting experience. Attendees relished the opportunity to sample the flavours of various watermelon and melon varieties.  The Caribbean range of melon stood out as a clear favourite to growers as well as retailers, guessing brix with each taste and rootstock. The exotic PDS, Canary, Charantais and Honeydew melon varieties held their own and showed that Rijk Zwaan has an extensive portfolio that can be grown with great success in South Africa.

Transporting and Storing

The question often arises on how to transport and store these lovely sweet Rijk Zwaan watermelons and if storing them for a period, will they lose their sweet taste and lovely mouthfeel.

Get ready to dive into the mouthwatering world of watermelon care, the secrets you need for a blissful watermelon experience!

Let’s kick things off with the ABCs of storing watermelons in the heart of South Africa. Whether you’re a farmer, a vendor, or just someone with a serious watermelon craving, knowing the ropes of proper storage is key. Rijk Zwaan South Africa boasts some of the sweetest watermelons on the planet, and you want to keep that goodness intact.

First off, make sure your watermelons are stored in a cool, dry place. Think of it as a spa retreat for your favorite summer treat. Aim for temperatures around 10-15°C. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations – watermelons don’t like surprises. A consistent environment helps maintain that perfect balance of sweetness and juiciness.

Now, let’s talk packing – the unsung hero of watermelon preservation. Opt for sturdy crates or bins to avoid any squashy mishaps. Cushion those lovable watermelons with soft padding, ensuring they don’t rub elbows (or rinds) during the journey. And don’t forget to label those babies with love – clear, bold signage can make all the difference when it’s time to unload.

Transporting watermelons across South Africa’s diverse landscapes requires finesse. Secure your precious cargo snugly, preventing any unnecessary jostling. Consider the terrain – if your route resembles a roller coaster, take extra precautions to avoid melon avalanches. Safe travels mean happy watermelons, and happy watermelons mean happy customers!

Now, let’s address the burning question: does prolonged storage affect the sugar content and overall mouthfeel of watermelons? Brace yourself for the revelation – yes, it does, but not all hope is lost! The sugar content may see a slight decline, and the texture might undergo subtle changes, but fear not – the watermelon magic can still be retained.

The secret lies in choosing the right varieties. Some watermelon cultivars are more resilient to long storage periods, maintaining their sweetness and texture with a wink and a smile. Keep an eye out for those sturdy breeds like Morgan RZ F1 and Candy Ball that withstand the test of time – your taste buds will thank you.

When it comes to the sugar saga, don’t let it scare you off. Even with a mild reduction in sweetness, Rijk Zwaan South Africa watermelons are still miles ahead in the flavor game compared to their counterparts. Think of it as a maturation process – like fine wine, watermelons can get better with time.

As for texture and mouthfeel, some aficionados argue that longer storage can lead to a slightly softer bite. While the crunch might diminish, the overall eating experience remains top-notch. Picture a luscious, velvety texture that practically melts in your mouth – it’s a trade-off that many find quite delightful.

In conclusion, Rijk Zwaan South Africa watermelons are a gift that keeps on giving, even after some extended downtime. By mastering the art of storage, packing, and transportation, you ensure that these ruby-red and also the yellow flesh  wonders maintain their allure from farm to table. So, whether you’re a farmer with fields of green or a watermelon enthusiast on the hunt for the sweetest slice, follow these tips and savor the essence of South African summer all year round!

These varieties from Rijk Zwaan symbolize not just innovation but a commitment to delivering exceptional quality produce that resonates with consumers’ preference.

For more information and ordering of seed, please contact Rijk Zwaan South Africa Crop Specialist: Francois Kruger on 076 152 8411.