Watermelon

Scientific Name: Cucumis sp.
Hopi Name in 1935 field notes: Hopi kawaivatnga (Horse Mellon) Source of Seed: Old type, Pure strain, Seed from Kïwanyesva. An Oraibi man now dead
Crop Management: Grown in dune in an isolated plot. Date Planted: May Date Harvested: two weeks before interview
Harvesting and Storage: Cut from vine in field and brought in. When vibration rate is lower when thumped. Standard test for watermelon. Stored in back room, free from frost. Until February. Saved all seeds from every melon. Seeds not used for seed, ground and used to oil Piki stones. Seed selected at planting time.
Properties and Use: Eaten by family only. Does not taste as good as store melons.