Everyone wants to know how to preserve watermelons. But most people do not understand that there is a secret guide to achieving this. Watermelons, as you know, are a delightful summer treat loved by many for their juicy, refreshing flavour. However, they have a relatively short shelf life once they are harvested. To enjoy the succulent taste throughout the year, it’s essential to know the common ways to preserve watermelons.

In this article, we will explore the best ways to store and preserve watermelons, ensuring they stay fresh for longer periods.

How to Preserve Watermelons

To keep the juicy sweetness of your watermelons intact, follow these simple steps:

1. Always Harvest Watermelons at the Right Time 

Preserving watermelons begins with harvesting them at the right time. It’s important to wait until they are fully ripe before picking them from the vine. Look for signs such as a dull appearance on the skin and a yellow or cream-coloured bottom where the melon was resting on the ground. 

A ripe watermelon will also produce a hollow sound when tapped. Harvesting at the peak of ripeness ensures the best flavour and texture when preserving the fruit. 

2. Learn to Store Watermelons in a Cool and Dry Place

Once harvested, watermelons can be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. A well-ventilated area such as a basement or cellar is ideal. Avoid storing watermelons near fruits that emit ethylene gas, such as apples and bananas, as it can cause them to ripen too quickly. This is one easy way to store and preserve watermelons.

3. How to Preserve Watermelons Using the Refrigerator

If you plan to consume the watermelon within a few days, storing it in the refrigerator can help prolong its freshness. Wrap the watermelon in a clean cloth or place it in a perforated plastic bag to prevent moisture buildup. 

The temperature of the refrigerator should be set between 4°C and 10°C (40°F and 50°F) to maintain the watermelon’s quality. This will also keep the watermelon from ripening too fast.  

4. Freezing Watermelon for Long-term Storage

Freezing is one of the best ways to preserve watermelons for an extended period. To freeze watermelon, cut it into bite-sized pieces or use a melon baller to create small, round shapes. 

Lay the watermelon pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until firm. Then, transfer the frozen watermelon pieces into airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen watermelon can be stored for up to 12 months.

5. Dehydrating Watermelon for a Tasty Snack

Another method when you consider how to preserve watermelons is dehydration. Start by cutting the watermelon into thin, uniform slices. Place the slices on a dehydrator tray or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 

Set the dehydrator temperature to around 135°F (57°C) or use your oven on its lowest setting. Leave the watermelon slices to dehydrate for 8-12 hours until they become crispy. Store the dehydrated watermelon in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.

6. Pickling Watermelon Rinds for Unique Flavour

Don’t let watermelon rinds go to waste! Pickling the rinds can provide a unique and tangy flavour that complements various dishes. To pickle watermelon rinds, remove the green skin and cut the white rind into bite-sized pieces. Prepare a pickling solution using vinegar, sugar, and spices of your choice. 

Boil the solution, then add the watermelon rinds and simmer until they become tender. Transfer the pickled rinds into sterilised jars, seal them tightly, and store them in a cool, dark place.

Conclusion on How to Preserve Watermelons 

In conclusion, preserving watermelons is a valuable skill that allows us to prolong the enjoyment of this refreshing and delicious fruit. By utilizing these effective preservation techniques, you can savour the sweet, juicy goodness of watermelons even beyond their peak season.

But sometimes, you may run into bad vendors who sell you stall watermelons. This can be very frustrating! That is why Fruit Garden fresh watermelons are currently available at an affordable price. Not only that but through our pomologists, we have been able to create a one-week meal plan for fruitarians which you would consider worth your while.