BLOOMINGTON — Nothing says late summer quite like biting into a sweet, juicy slice of watermelon. But not all watermelons are created equal: Indiana farmers cultivate several distinct varieties selected for exceptional flavor, fruit size, and reliable performance in local soil and climate conditions.
Whether you’re shopping at local roadside stands or visiting the market, understanding these unique varieties can help you find your perfect harvest treat.
5 Watermelon Varieties Grown in Indiana
- Premont: A dependable favorite among growers, known for strong yields and uniform size, typically running around 45 melons per bulk count.
- Excursion: Recognized for consistency and quality, often producing large fruit in the 36-count size range.
- Traveler: Highly valued by local farmers for its hardy performance and adaptation to Indiana’s specific growing conditions.
- KB12106: Noted for its clean appearance and uniform fruit size, usually falling in the 45-count range.
- Exclamation: A standout variety that consistently receives high marks in agricultural field trials.
What Do the “Count” Numbers Mean?
Terms like 36-count and 45-count refer to the approximate number of watermelons packed into a standard bulk container (a shipping bin). They serve as a quick guide to individual fruit size: 36-count melons are larger than 45-count melons because fewer of them fit inside the same bin space.
While variety plays a major role in texture and shape, factors like weather conditions, ripeness, and harvest timing ultimately dictate sweetness. The best approach? Chat directly with local growers to see what they are harvesting this week.
What’s Happening at the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market
Experience the season’s harvest every Saturday in October from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 401 N. Morton St. (Fernandez Plaza in front of City Hall).
October Market Selection
| Fresh Produce | Baked Goods & Pantry | Value-Added Specialties |
|---|---|---|
| • Apples & Pears | • Breads, Cakes & Pastries | • Jams & Pesto |
| • Sweet Corn & Green Beans | • Local Cheese & Dairy | • Hot Sauces & Salsas |
| • Pumpkins & Winter Squash | • Honey & Maple Syrup | • Kimchi & Sauerkraut |
| • Leafy Greens & Cucumbers | • Meats (Beef, Pork, Salmon) | • Pickles & Dried Herbs |
| • Potatoes & Sweet Potatoes | • Coffee, Tea & Kombucha | • Herbal Teas |
Saturday Events & Highlights
Final “A Fair of the Arts” of 2026: Shop handmade artwork and fine crafts showcased by local and regional artisans on Fernandez Plaza. This is the last fine arts showcase of the season.
Mayor’s Team at the Table (10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.): Meet City of Bloomington Director of Human Resources Sharr Pechac and department staff to share ideas, ask questions, and discuss city programs in an informal setting.
Erika Stoner: Storytelling through traditional Celtic melodies and American classics on the harp (Sets at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.).
Shape the Future of the Market
Market organizers invite visitors to share their ideas by completing the Customer Survey at the BCFM Information Booth or online.
Participants will be entered into a drawing to win a free Market tote bag and a $5 Market gift certificate.
