Key Facts
• August ends, but shipments of ‘Controlled Gokumi Watermelon’ begin in September.
• This specialty of Kurayoshi City differs from the premium ‘Gokumi Watermelon’ shipped in June.
• Farmers plant in early July and harvest in September, utilizing 6.4 hectares of greenhouses.
• 40 local farmers participate, enabling dual cropping and higher market prices.
• At the August 29 evaluation, 13 watermelons averaged 9.2 kg in weight and 11.2° in sweetness.
• Despite greenhouse temperatures exceeding 45°C, the quality remained high.
• Tasting feedback highlighted the watermelon’s softness and sweetness.
• Compared to spring watermelons, these have softer flesh, enhancing perceived sweetness.
• JA Tottori Central aims to ship 15,000 cases to major cities, targeting $750,000 in sales.
Summary
As summer ends, Kurayoshi City begins shipping its unique ‘Controlled Gokumi Watermelon,’ cultivated to extend the watermelon season into autumn. Unlike the premium ‘Gokumi Watermelon’ harvested in June, these are planted in July and harvested in September, allowing farmers to maximize greenhouse usage and achieve higher prices. At the August 29 evaluation, the watermelons averaged 9.2 kg in weight and 11.2° in sweetness, meeting expectations despite extreme greenhouse temperatures. Tasting reviews praised their softness and sweetness, distinguishing them from spring varieties. JA Tottori Central plans to ship 15,000 cases to urban markets, aiming for $750,000 in revenue, while enhancing the brand’s reputation.
