Watermelon

In season in SW Michigan

In season

Months from the MSU Extension seasonal availability guide. Weather shifts dates a little each year.

Key nutrients

%DV uses FDA Daily Values for adults and children 4+. Values are USDA lab averages scaled to the serving; your harvest may differ.

Wellness

A cup of diced watermelon has about 46 calories, plus 12 mg of vitamin C (14% DV). That makes it a good source of vitamin C. (USDA) The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements says the body needs vitamin C to make collagen, which helps wounds heal, and that vitamin C improves absorption of iron from plant foods and helps the immune system work properly. (NIH ODS)

Pick, store and use

• Pick

  Choose one with a hard rind that feels heavy for its size, with a yellow patch on the “belly” where it sat on the ground. Thumping doesn't tell you if it's ripe. (MSU Extension)

• Store

  Uncut watermelons keep up to 2 weeks at 45–50°F. Wrap cut pieces tightly and refrigerate; they last up to 3 days. (MSU Extension)

• Use

  Rinse or scrub the rind under cool running water before cutting. (MSU Extension)

Where to get it nearby

• Druskovich FarmsDecatur · Van Buren Co.

See all farms →

Farms whose listing mentions watermelon. Check with the farm before you go.