Watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit that's perfect for beating the summer heat. Many farmers are looking for ways to extend its shelf life so they can sell it for longer periods. According to experts, following specific techniques like optimal harvesting time, proper storage conditions, and careful handling can significantly improve watermelon preservation.
Harvesting at the right time is crucial. Late-maturing varieties usually take around 40 days to mature. At this point, the tendrils near the fruit begin to wither, the fuzz on the rind starts to fall off, and the skin becomes smooth and shiny. When you press the fruit, it should feel slightly soft, indicating it’s ready to eat. However, if you're planning to store the watermelons, it's best to harvest them a little earlier when they're still firm but not fully mature. This helps prevent over-ripening during storage.
Avoiding physical damage is equally important. Watermelons meant for storage must be handled gently to prevent bruising, cuts, or any kind of surface damage. They should also be kept away from excessive pressure, dropping, or shaking. It's ideal to store them close to where they were grown, minimizing unnecessary movement and long-distance transport.
Before storage, you can treat the watermelons with a fumigant like chlorothalonil to prevent diseases. The method involves preparing a solution containing 0.1 to 0.2 ml per kilogram of the solution, applying it to cotton balls or absorbent paper, and placing them around the watermelons. Then, cover the area with plastic film and let it sit for 24 hours. This helps protect the fruit from mold and other pathogens during storage.
Temperature control is key. The lower the temperature, the better the flavor, as long as there’s no odor or spoilage. However, extremely low temperatures can cause cold injury, which affects the appearance and reduces the market value of the watermelon. For short-term storage (less than 20 days), a cooler environment is ideal. But if you're storing them for more than 20 days, a slightly higher temperature is recommended to avoid damage.
When storing, use either a stack or a shelf system. Choose a cool, dry room or a shaded area. Place a layer of wheat straw about 5 to 10 cm thick on the floor, then arrange the watermelons in 2 to 3 layers. Alternatively, place them on shelves or racks. During the storage period, make sure to keep the area well-ventilated and dry. Regularly check the watermelons, and remove any that show signs of rot or disease to prevent the spread of spoilage.
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