Japan's 'Square Watermelon': Not Genetically Modified, But a Product of Cultivation Innovation

The 'square watermelon,' known as 'shikaku suika' in Japan, possesses a unique shape that might initially suggest genetic modification. However, its secret lies in a surprisingly simple cultivation technique: guiding the fruit's growth using a special box or mold. This concept originated in the 1970s from Tomoyuki Ono, a graphic designer who observed the practical difficulties of storing round watermelons in refrigerators, noting their tendency to take up excessive space and roll around. He experimented by placing young watermelons inside transparent boxes, allowing them to grow and conform to the box's shape. While not perfectly sharp-cornered, the 'square watermelon' features gentle curves, its relatively flat form offers practical advantages, making it easier to stack, move, and store without rolling. When Ono unveiled his creation at a Tokyo gallery in 1978, its novelty captured media attention, and sales began in markets the following year. Producing high-quality square watermelons requires placing young fruits in transparent containers, typically made of acrylic, with sides around 18 centimeters. The transparency ensures the fruit receives adequate light. Throughout the growth period, daily adjustments to the watermelon's position are crucial to maintain a neat and symmetrical skin pattern. Even minor cracks can diminish its quality. This meticulous process, involving specialized molds, labor, and constant supervision, makes square watermelons significantly more expensive than regular ones. In Japan, a single shikaku suika can be sold for ¥10,000 to ¥20,000 (approximately $70 to $140 USD). Beyond its novelty, this cultivation technique enhances the watermelon's value as a gift, offering surprise and delight to recipients on special occasions. Information Source: Mongabay Indonesia