Watermelon Markets Hold Strong as Demand Supports Steady Pricing

UNITED STATES - Watermelon markets remain firm entering July, with very good demand supporting steady pricing in Georgia while lighter supplies are lifting markets in South Carolina.

According to the USDA's July 2 National FOB Review, Georgia continues to anchor the market with very good demand and about steady pricing despite very light supplies of Black Diamond, red flesh seedless miniature and yellow flesh seedless varieties, along with light supplies of red flesh seeded melons. Red flesh seedless watermelons are mostly ranging from $161.00 to $168.00 per 24-inch bin across 36-, 45- and 60-count sizes, while Black Diamond melons are selling between $189.00 and $210.00. Red flesh seeded melons are mostly $133.00 to $140.00, and seedless miniature cartons are $14.00 to $16.00.

In South Carolina, light supplies and good demand have pushed the market slightly higher. Red flesh seedless watermelons are mostly $161.00 to $168.00 across all common bin sizes, with occasional higher prices reported. Supplies of seeded watermelons remain too limited to establish a market.

Meanwhile, Texas is reporting moderate demand with a steady market. Red flesh seedless watermelons are ranging from $168.00 to $182.00 per 24-inch bin across approximate 36-, 45- and 60-count sizes, with most sales occurring between $175.00 and $182.00 despite variable quality and condition.

Overall, watermelon demand continues to support healthy market conditions as the summer season progresses. While lighter supplies are adding strength in some regions, steady production across key growing areas is helping maintain stable pricing.

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