A Practical Idea Takes Shape
Square watermelons were first cultivated in Japan during the 1970s by graphic designer Tomoyuki Ono. He envisioned a way to make storing and shipping watermelons more efficient. By growing them in clear, square molds, farmers could produce watermelons that fit perfectly in refrigerators and were easier to stack for transport.
Growing the Unusual
To create the square shape, young watermelons are placed in rigid, transparent containers as they grow. The container restricts the fruit’s expansion, forcing it to conform to the shape of the box. These watermelons are typically harvested before fully ripening, ensuring their structural integrity.
A Pricey Phenomenon
Square watermelons are considered a luxury item in Japan and abroad. Often used as decorative gifts, they can cost hundreds of dollars each. Their aesthetic appeal, novelty, and labor-intensive cultivation process contribute to their high price.
Square watermelons, a Japanese innovation from the 1970s, were created for practicality. Designed by Tomoyuki Ono, they are grown in clear molds, forcing them into a square shape. This idea was meant to make watermelons easier to store, stack, and fit into refrigerators. pic.twitter.com/fQnqrSJgx1
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