How To Preserve Watermelon to Enjoy Long After Summer!

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Learn How To Preserve Watermelon in no time at all with this guide, including proven methods to help you keep watermelon in your kitchen all year long! With steps for freezing and dehydrating, you’ll become a preservation master.

Two ripe watermelons with dark and light green stripes grow among leafy vines in a garden, perfect for learning how to preserve watermelon. A website watermark reads “BLESSTHISMESSPLEASE.COM” at the bottom of the image.

Preserving Guide: How To Preserve Watermelon

Watermelon season brings an abundance of this juicy, nutritious fruit, but its high water content makes it one of the most challenging fruits to preserve effectively. Many people struggle with watermelon going bad quickly after cutting, leading to significant food waste and missed opportunities to enjoy this vitamin-rich summer staple beyond its peak season.

The key to successful watermelon preservation lies in understanding the right techniques for different storage goals and timeframes. Whether you want to keep cut watermelon fresh for a few extra days, freeze portions for smoothies, or create concentrated dried snacks, mastering how to preserve watermelon will ensure you can savor this beloved fruit whenever the craving strikes!

Preserving Guide: How To Preserve Watermelon
When To Harvest Watermelon
How To Store Watermelon
Dehydrating Watermelon
Canning Watermelon
Freezing Watermelon
Expert Tips
More Tips For Preserving The Harvest

When To Harvest Watermelon

The tendrils that are normally bright green near where the watermelon meets the stem will turn brown. The surface of the watermelon goes from shiny to dull. The side of the melon that rests on the soil will turn from green to yellow. It gives off a dull, hollow sound when knocked on.

How To Store Watermelon

Make sure to store watermelon only at room temperature.

Dehydrating Watermelon

CUT: Scrub outer surface well with brush under cool running water. Remove outer skin, any fibrous tissue and seeds. Cut into 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick slices.
DIPPING: Dip in ascorbic acid for 10 minutes. Remove and drain well.
DEHYDRATOR: Dry until leathery and pliable with no pockets of moisture.
APPEARANCE WHEN DRY: leathery and pliable

Canning Watermelon

I do not recommend canning watermelon.

Sliced watermelon on a blue cutting board, above a photo of a whole watermelon growing on a vine among green leaves and rocks—perfect visuals for learning how to preserve watermelon at its freshest.

Freezing Watermelon

PREPARING WATERMELON

Select firm-fleshed, well-colored ripe melons.
Cut in half, remove seeds and rind.
Cut melons into slices, cubes or balls.

SYRUP PACK

Pack into containers and cover with cold 30 percent syrup.
Leave headspace.
Seal and freeze.

UNSWEETENED PACK

Pack into containers, leaving headspace.
Seal and freeze.

🍎🫙 Get a free Preserving Guide for all the details to dehydrate, can, and freeze 42 fruits and vegetables — get the FREE GUIDE here!

Expert Tips

Storage Time: The storage life depends on your preservation method. Refrigerated cut watermelon lasts 3-5 days, frozen watermelon maintains quality for 10-12 months, and dehydrated watermelon can last up to 1 year when stored properly.
Frozen vs Fresh Taste: Frozen watermelon has a softer texture when thawed due to ice crystal formation breaking down cell walls. While the flavor remains excellent, it’s best used in smoothies, beverages, or recipes rather than eating fresh. The sweetness actually concentrates slightly during freezing.
Benefits of Preservation: Properly preserved watermelon retains most of its vitamin C, lycopene, and hydrating properties! You’ll continue getting health benefits while enjoying the convenience of ready-to-use preserved fruit.