August 3 is World Watermelon Day in different countries. The harvest of ripe and juicy summer fruits in Turkmenistan is now in full swing. For example, only in Akhal velayat this year more than three thousand hectares of gourds were planted.

The cultivation of melons and watermelons on Turkmen soil has deep historical roots, as evidenced by archaeological finds. Melon seeds were discovered at the excavations of the ancient city of Gyaur-Kala in Merv.

Continuing the agricultural traditions of their ancestors, modern melon growers annually increase their yields, providing an abundance of gourds on the market stalls.

Watermelon, although it consists of 90% water, is a valuable source of vitamins and minerals. Minerals - magnesium, potassium, calcium and phosphorus, contained in ripe fruits, support vital processes inside the cells of the human body and play an important role in metabolism. Also in watermelons there is a fortified bouquet, which includes fat-soluble vitamins A and E.

However, due to the high content of fructose, it is recommended to eat no more than 300 grams of watermelon per day. In addition, it is one of the lowest calorie fruits. There are only 30 kcal per 100 grams. Watermelon gives a feeling of satiety and promotes weight loss.

There are more than 1200 varieties of watermelon in the world. To choose the most delicious striped fruit, you need to know a few rules. Even bright red flesh is not an indicator of taste. It all depends on the variety. When buying a watermelon, pay attention to the peel.

The fruit, grown on the ground under the rays of the summer sun, has a characteristic yellow speck. The ripeness of the watermelon is evidenced by a dry tail and a moderately sonorous sound that responds when tapped. Also, a ripe watermelon looks much heavier than it actually is.

The watermelon season will last until October. Turkmen people will be able to enjoy ripe juicy fruits until autumn.