Facts Of Square Watermelon | Facts of square watermelon | Blue square watermelon
Square or cube watermelons are watermelons grown into the shape of a cube. Cube watermelons are common in Japan, but they are purely ornamental and are often very expensive, with prices as high as $100.
Square watermelon might look like a genetically modified watermelon from planet geometry but square watermelons are grown naturally and it's so easy you can even do it in your own veggie patch at home. While the watermelon is still small on the vine, a square, tempered glass box is placed around it. The melons are grown in boxes and take the shape of the container. They tend to appeal to wealthy or fashionable consumers because in 2001 they cost anywhere from two to three times a normal watermelon
Let's get one thing out of the way right up front: It doesn't matter what shape the watermelon is, it's what's inside that matters. That said, you have to admit there's something cool about watermelons that defy convention by assuming different shapes.
First, the how. It's actually pretty easy (relatively speaking) to grow a square watermelon. Just about anyone can do it. While the watermelon is still small on the vine, a square, tempered glass box is placed around it. When the watermelon gets bigger, it assumes the shape of the box! You can do this too. There are even websites dedicated to teaching you how. Just remember to use a glass or transparent mold so the sunlight can reach the watermelon on all sides (except the bottom).
Facts Of Square Watermelon | Facts of square watermelon | Blue square watermelon
And why are square watermelons grown? Two reasons actually. First, the square watermelons are easier to stack, which makes them easier to ship. Second, and perhaps most ingeniously, with space being an issue in crowded areas of Japan, the square watermelon is designed to fit perfectly inside smaller Japanese refrigerators.
Unfortunately, square watermelons are more decorative than they are tasty. The melons are harvested before they are ripe, making them pretty much inedible. In Japan, it's customary to give high-end fruits as gifts, so these watermelons make great presents for special occasions.
But, just like the heart-shaped creations, square watermelons cost a bit more than one shaped by Mother Nature.
Two reasons actually. First, the square watermelons are easier to stack, which makes them easier to ship. Second, and perhaps most ingeniously, with space being an issue in crowded areas of Japan, the square watermelon is designed to fit perfectly inside smaller Japanese refrigerators.
Facts Of Square Watermelon | Facts of square watermelon | Blue square watermelon
People also ask
How do square watermelons grow?
It's actually surprisingly easy (relatively speaking) to grow a square watermelon. Just about anyone can do it. While the watermelon is still small on the vine, a square, tempered glass box is placed around it. When the watermelon gets bigger, it grows into the shape of the box!
How long do square watermelons last?
The square watermelons are best seen or purchased from July 1st to August 20th. They can last up to 6 months in ideal conditions and cost between 10,000 and 20,000 yen at most locations. In 2016, approximately 200 were grown and sold so they're quite rare
Why is square watermelon expensive?
When the watermelons grow in these square molds, the fruit often does not really respond to the mold, which means fewer are successfully made — and that the price for the in-demand watermelons can easily be driven up when there are not enough to meet demand.
Who invented square watermelon?
They were invented by graphic designer Tomoyuki Ono in 1978. He presented the watermelons in a gallery in Ginza, Tokyo. He also applied for and received a patent in the United States. The melons are grown in boxes and take the shape of the container, and tend to appeal to wealthy or fashionable consumers.
What is a luxury fruit?
Luxury fruit is a market which is virtually unknown in the USA, yet it has managed to gain a significant foothold in Japan's gift-giving culture. At Sembikiya, prices start high and only get higher. On the low end, you can find Sun Fuji apples for $17USD each and persimmons for $10 each.
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