How to Store Watermelon
Whole watermelon is usually stored for only a short period at home, and best quality comes from harvesting fully ripe fruit. Unlike some fruits, it does not continue to gain sweetness after harvest.
Best storage conditions
Store whole watermelon around 50 to 59 F for best quality, with 45 to 50 F used only for shorter holding. Relative humidity around 85 to 90 percent is generally suitable. Do not refrigerate whole melons for extended periods at very cold temperatures because chilling injury can develop. Once cut, refrigerate promptly.
How long it keeps
Whole watermelon often keeps about 1 to 2 weeks at home, and up to 2 to 3 weeks under very good conditions. Cut melon should be used much sooner, usually within several days under refrigeration.
Storage methods
Keep whole melons in a cool room if you will use them soon, or refrigerate only for shorter storage when needed. Avoid rough handling because internal bruising is easy to cause and hard to see. Root cellar style storage is usually not used for long periods. No curing is involved.
Freezing & preserving
Watermelon is not commonly canned as a plain product, but rind pickles and some frozen preparations are used. For any shelf stable pickle or preserve, use tested USDA or NCHFP recipes.
Tips
Harvest at full maturity because flavor will not improve after picking. Keep cut surfaces covered in the refrigerator to reduce moisture loss and flavor pickup.
General home-storage guidance. For home canning and preserving safety, follow USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) guidelines. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.