Cordele, GA is the Watermelon Capital of the World. This episode explores how this iconic summer fruit shapes the local economy and culture. From farm fields to festivals, join David Zelski as he meets the growers, experts, and community members behind Georgia’s sweetest harvest.

 

 

In this episode, host David Zelski takes you to Cordele, Georgia, known proudly as the Watermelon Capital of the World. Located in Crisp County, this region produces more watermelons than any other county in the United States. David visits during the annual Watermelon Days Festival, a tradition that marks the start of harvest season with parades, hot air balloon rides, and seed-spitting contests. At the heart of the celebration is Georgia Watermelon Queen Adahy Pritchett, who shares her passion for promoting the health benefits and agricultural importance of watermelons.

The episode dives deep into the growing and harvesting process, from planting seeds to loading ripe melons onto buses and trucks. Listeners meet the third-generation farmers of Leger and Son, who focus on quality over quantity and highlight why Georgia's climate and soil make it ideal for watermelon production. The conversation also covers why seedless varieties dominate grocery store shelves and how pollinator plants and bees play a key role in growing them.

David tours the Cordele Farmers Market and learns how to spot a ripe melon right in the field. He and the watermelon queen discuss yellow-fleshed varieties, pickled rinds, and the surprising nutritional value of watermelon seeds. With lively moments and local voices, the episode captures how deeply this fruit is rooted in the economy and culture of Crisp County. For anyone who loves a good slice of summer, this journey through Georgia’s watermelon country is a refreshing treat.

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