How to Keep Watermelons Until New Year: Effective Long-Term Storage Methods

To preserve watermelons for the festive table on New Year and Christmas, it is important to follow the rules for selecting and storing the fruits.

This is reported by AgroReview

First of all, for long-term storage, it is essential to carefully select the watermelons: the fruit should be whole, without cracks, scratches, or signs of impact. It is optimal to choose thick-skinned varieties, such as “Astrakhan Striped,” “Bykovsky,” “Melitopol,” “Kholodov’s Gift,” “Azhinovsky,” “Volga,” and “Dessert.” These watermelons have firm flesh and thick skin, which ensures their resistance to spoilage.

Watermelons are recommended to be stored in a room with a temperature of +1 to +3 °C and a humidity level of 80–85%. The best place for this is a well-ventilated cellar or basement.

Popular Methods for Storing Watermelons

There are various methods for storing watermelons that help keep them fresh until winter:

• In Moss: Dry moss, collected in sunny weather, is laid in a thick layer at the bottom of a wooden box. The watermelon is carefully placed inside and completely covered with moss. The temperature should remain no lower than 2–3 °C.
• In Wood Ash: A layer of dry ash is poured into a wooden container, the watermelon is placed inside, and it is covered with ash to the top. The container is tightly closed and placed in a cool location.
• In Clay or Alabaster: Clay is mixed with water to a thick sour cream consistency, coated over the watermelon, and allowed to dry. Alabaster can be used in the same way. Store in a cool room.
• In a Suspended State: The watermelon is wrapped in natural fabric, placed in a net, and hung from the ceiling of the cellar.
• In Straw: A thick layer of straw is placed on the shelf of the basement, and watermelons are arranged on it, covered with straw up to the stem. The temperature should be +1…+5 °C. Watermelons should be checked periodically, and any spoiled ones should be removed.

Storing Watermelons Indoors and with Protective Coatings

• In a Residential Building: For long-term storage at home, it is important to find a dark, cool place. Watermelons should be turned regularly to avoid damage and exposure to light.
• In Wax or Paraffin Coating: An undamaged fruit is coated with melted wax or paraffin in a layer of about 1 cm and stored in a cool place.

The watermelon should not be bruised, cracked, or scratched. It is advisable to choose “striped” varieties with thick skins and not place them on hard surfaces. The optimal storage temperature is +1…+3 °C, with a humidity level of 80-85%. A good cellar or basement with a proper ventilation system is suitable for the “winter hibernation” of watermelons.

Following these recommendations will allow you to keep watermelons fresh and fragrant even until the New Year holidays.