Texas watermelon growers are reporting excellent yields and high-quality fruit this season, but market prices are not keeping up as the peak of summer approaches. Conditions have been ideal for production, especially in the Rio Grande Valley. Timely rain, warm temperatures, and dry conditions have contributed to minimal pest and disease issues and high sugar levels in the fruit. Yields are well above average in many areas.
However, strong harvests in Florida and an incoming wave from Georgia have flooded the market, driving down prices. Wholesale watermelon prices have dropped to 14–18 cents per pound this year, compared to 18–22 cents at the same time last year. In 2023, growers were seeing more than 30 cents per pound. As a result, a watermelon that sold for $6 at retail last year is now going for about $5. The Texas watermelon market typically sees a surge in demand around the Fourth of July, but this year’s oversupply is keeping prices down despite the holiday boost.
In the Winter Garden region, the season started a bit slower due to erratic weather, but fruit quality has been strong and yields have improved as conditions stabilized. Some areas saw lower fruit sets, possibly caused by poor pollination or high winds early in the season.
While the growing season has been favorable, growers are facing higher input costs across the board. Labor expenses—particularly for farms using the H2A guest worker program—along with prices for plastic mulch and drip irrigation systems, have risen by roughly 30% compared to previous years.
With lower prices and higher costs, many growers are struggling to break even. The economic squeeze may influence planting decisions for the 2026 season, especially for those supplying grocery chains and roadside stands alike. For now, consumers can expect to enjoy sweet, high-quality Texas watermelons at a bargain, but growers are left hoping the market rebounds soon.
