How do I know when my cantaloupe and watermelon are ripe?

Question

When can I pick the cantaloupe and watermelon?

Answer 1

A good indicator is the color of the underside of a melon--the more pale it is, the riper it is.

Also, press your finger into the area where the flower fell off...it it "gives" a bit, it is ripe. One more way--smell it. If you can detect the smell it should have, it is ripe or nearly so.

Answer 2

I usually put my cantaloupe in a small bowl with that round "circle" facing up.  Then when that "circle" looks like it is getting gray or moldy looking pare, cut it up.  Keep in the refridgerator UNCOVERED.