“Production of our honeydews and watermelons starts today,” says Mikee Suarez of MAS Melons & Grapes. “Harvest starts in the Northern part of Mexico, with Caborca being our largest growing region for honeydews, and Hermosillo the largest growing area for watermelons,” mentioned Suarez. Besides Sonora, the company grows melons in two other regions in Mexico. Tecoman in the state of Colima is the second largest growing area. This region in Southern Mexico allows for supply from January until mid-late April. Also in the South of Mexico is the third largest growing area, Nayarit. Here, melons are grown for the winter months as well.
“Growing conditions up north have been ideal this year,” shared Suarez. The only challenge is the threat of late Monsoon rains traveling through the region. “Fortunately, hurricane Newton came and went very quickly, without causing any damage to the crop.”
Brix sensors to differentiate from competition
To ensure excellent taste, brix sensors are used; one in Caborca and one in Colima. Each melon is scanned with the sensor by using a white light, without cutting into the melon. The brix sensor also detects any growth defects in the interior of the melon. “With this machine we are able to provide a better tasting melon than the competition,” said Suarez.
Fonzy melon
MAS Melons & Grapes grows and markets honeydews, orange flesh, and Fonzy melons. In addition, mini and conventional watermelons are part of the company’s range. Honeydews are the company’s biggest commodity by volume and are grown for the US market as well as shipped to Japan. Cantaloupes are grown for the Mexican and Japanese markets. MAS Melons & Grapes has been shipping melons to Japan since 2001.
The Fonzy melon is the newest melon variety and is in a transition phase from testing to full production. It is a type of golden honeydew with a unique look and taste. This naturally sweet melon with a brix level of 12 or higher is grown for the US market.
Honeydews are available 10 months out of the year. Conventional watermelons can be purchased for 9 months and the Fonzy and orange flesh melons are currently available for 6 months. If demand increases, there is an opportunity to extend availability.
For more information:
Mikee Suarez
MAS Melons & Grapes
Tel: 520-377-2372