Wintermelon Longkeeper Watermelon

Wintermelon is a rare heritage watermelon selected for its exceptional keeping quality. Fruits feature a pale greenish-white rind and pale pink flesh with a firm, old-fashioned texture. While flavourful and a welcome treat in mid-winter, the fruits are naturally very seedy—true to the original heirloom line.

Harvesting slightly before full ripeness is essential. Wipe the rind clean to remove surface fungi; in some cases, a mild bleach solution helps improve storage. Store the melons so they are not touching, in a cool area kept around 50 °F (10 °C).

This heirloom was grown by German-Russian and Mennonite immigrant communities in the American Midwest for winter use. First selected in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the variety became known for its thick rind and long shelf life. In dry climates, fruits harvested in October could last into mid-February; in more humid regions, they typically kept until early January.

How to Store Wintermelon Longkeeper Watermelon

This is a true long-keeping heirloom watermelon, wintermelon is bred to store far longer than modern melons.

• Store whole fruit uncut
• Best kept in a cool, dry place (ideal temperature: about 10–15°C / 50–60°F)
• A cellar, cold room, unheated pantry, or spare fridge works well
• Avoid damp conditions — airflow matters
• Keep away from apples or other ethylene-producing fruit

When stored properly, Wintermelon Longkeeper can keep for months, traditionally into January or February.

Once cut:

• Refrigerate
• Use within 3–5 days

It can be kept in a fridge, especially if you don’t have a cellar. A fridge is colder than ideal but will still preserve the melon well.

For a fun look at wintermelon in January, visit my You Tube Channel!