Watermelons can also be grown in this country. But how do you know when they are ripe and what is the best way to store them? Find out here.

The large fruits are only harvested from the end of August until autumn

Watermelons (Citrullus lanatus) are a refreshing change for many people in summer and can be bought in every supermarket. But despite the warm origin, the fruity pumpkin plant (Cucurbitaceae) can also be cultivated in Germany with the right technology. We will show you how to proceed after cultivating the watermelons, how to recognize the best time to harvest and how to store the fruit correctly.

Harvesting watermelons: When are they ripe?

Unlike other cucurbits (Cucurbitaceae) such as cucumbers and zucchini, watermelons take longer to ripen. As a rule, the fruits can be harvested from the end of August. Depending on the weather and the time of planting, however, ripening can last until autumn. In order to recognize the right time to harvest, there are various clues. Ripe watermelons are dark green in color and turn yellowish at the point of contact. You can also hear from the sound whether the fruit is ripe - the tone should sound dull. For amateur gardeners, however, estimating the degree of ripeness is not easy, as it usually requires a lot of experience in growing melons. Be sure to harvest watermelons as soon as the leaves begin to wither in the fall.

Ripening Watermelon

You can use these dots to tell when a watermelon is ripe:

  • Dark Green Shell
  • Yellow contact surface on the underside
  • Dull sound when knocking
  • Withered leaves in autumn

In general, it is advisable to only harvest ripe specimens, as unripe watermelons are not yet very sweet.

Storing Watermelons

With their high water content and the special structure of the flesh, watermelons cannot be stored for very long. We present several ways to extend the shelf life as best as possible.

Watermelons belong to the cucurbit family and look like their relatives insimilar to early stages of development

Optimal storage conditions for watermelons

You can store watermelons for about two weeks if they are not refrigerated. An undamaged skin is decisive for the storage period - careful handling of the large fruits is therefore particularly important. If you have enough space, uncut watermelons are best stored in a cool, dark place such as the basement. Once melons have been sliced, you should cover them with cling film and place them in the fridge.

Freezing Watermelons

A lot of people wonder if watermelons can be frozen so you can eat them as you go. It is generally not advisable to do this, as the melon pieces become very mushy after defrosting. However, if you want to puree watermelon and drink it as a smoothie, it can still be worth freezing.

Did you know that not only watermelons can be planted in this country? You can also grow other melon types and varieties in Germany.

Category:

Vegetables