This article was taken from the May 2015 issue of WIRED magazine. Be the first to read WIRED's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
Watermelons, when left to themselves, naturally grow in a rounded shape similar to that of a rugby ball. You've probably never questioned that fact, but the good news is that with a little work, these fruits can be made square. Besides the sense of power it'll give you from defying nature, a square shape is more efficient for storage in a cramped refrigerator. Producing this type of melon isn't as difficult as you might think.
What you will need
In order to make this square treat, you'll need to start growing a watermelon vine and wait until there are baby melons on it. Additionally, you'll need a box with which to train it. Obtain six pieces of clear polycarbonate plastic, 20cm square. Material that's about 1cm thick is best, but thinner material can be used if you don't mind some bulging. You'll also need 24 angle brackets and corresponding wood screws to attach the polycarbonate.
Assemble your melon box
Assemble four pieces of polycarbonate into an open square box using eight angle brackets and screws, leaving space on the top and bottom for another set of brackets. Assemble another piece of polycarbonate on the bottom, attaching it with four angle brackets. These brackets should fit perfectly on two edges of the box; use those sides for attachment. Cut a hole 25mm in diameter through the centre of the last piece of polycarbonate, and attach the same way as the bottom.
Grow your melon
Push the baby melon into this box through the little hole. When the fruit is fully grown, cut it off the vine, unscrew the polycarbonate lid on the top and enjoy. You'll need a healthy vine to produce good results, and the clear or translucent cover is necessary to ensure that your square melon will become a healthy green colour instead of a an off-putting sickly yellow. The box needs to have holes or cracks in it, which this assembly should produce, to prevent water build-up that will rot the fruit.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
