Watermelons can also be grown in this country. But how do you know when they are ripe and how do you store them optimally? Find out here.
Watermelons (Citrullus lanatus) are a refreshing change for many in summer and can be bought in every supermarket. But despite its warm origins, the fruity pumpkin plant (Cucurbitaceae) can also be grown in Germany with the right technology. We'll show you how to go after the Cultivation of watermelons procedure, how you can recognize the optimal harvest time and how you store the fruit correctly.
Harvesting watermelons: when are they ripe?
Unlike other cucurbitaceae such as Cucumber and zucchini, watermelons take longer to ripen. As a rule, the fruits can be harvested from the end of August. However, depending on the weather and the time of planting, ripening can take until autumn. There are various points of reference to identify the right harvest time. Ripe watermelons are dark green in color and turn yellow at the point where they are placed. You can also hear from the sound whether the fruit is ripe - the sound should sound muffled. For hobby gardeners, however, estimating the degree of ripeness is not that easy, as it usually requires a lot of experience in melon cultivation. As soon as the leaves begin to wither in autumn, you should definitely harvest watermelons.
You can use these points to identify the ripeness of watermelons:
- Dark green shell
- Yellowish contact surface on the underside
- Dull sound when knocking
- Wilted autumn leaves
In principle, it is advisable to only harvest ripe specimens, as watermelons are not very sweet when they are unripe.
Store watermelons
With their high water content and the special structure of the pulp, watermelons cannot be stored for very long. We present several possibilities to extend the shelf life as best as possible.
Optimal storage conditions for watermelons
You can store watermelons for about two weeks in the unrefrigerated state. An undamaged peel is crucial for the storage period - careful handling of the large fruits is therefore particularly important. If there is enough space, uncut watermelons are best stored in a cool, dark place such as the basement. Once melons have been cut, cover them with cling film and place in the refrigerator.
Freeze watermelons
Many people wonder whether watermelons can also be frozen so that they can be eaten little by little. It is generally not advisable, as the melon pieces become very mushy after defrosting. If, on the other hand, you want to puree watermelon and drink it as a smoothie, freezing it can still be worthwhile.
Did you know that it is not only possible to plant watermelons in this country? You can have others too Growing melon species and varieties in Germany.
