They are small, relatively inconspicuous, still relatively unknown, but extremely exquisite in taste - the fruits of the pear melon. Anyone who grows the Pepino should not harvest its approximately 20 cm large fruits too early, because then there will be no applause on the palate.
How can you recognize a ripe pear melon?
The fruit peel of a ripe pear melon iscolored completely light yellowand is decorated with irregularpurple stripes. In addition, the subtly exotic-smelling fruit yields to finger pressure as the yellowish flesh is soft when ripe.
How long does it take to harvest the pear melon?
On average, it takes90 days for a Pepino flower to transform into a completely ripe fruit. This duration depends on various factors that are difficult for humans to influence on a melon pear that was planted outdoors. The weather plays a significant role in how long a melon pear takes to ripen. Warm nights promote ripeness. A location in full sun and protection, for example on a house wall or even in a greenhouse, is also an advantage.
When do pear melons ripen?
The harvest time for pear melons can begin as early asJulyunder optimal conditions, such as in a warm growing area and with early pre-cultivation. The harvest season finally extends until October, whereby not all the fruits ripen at the same time, but gradually. The lower melon pears usually ripen first.
How do I recognize a ripe pear melon before picking?
A ripe melon pear has a completelyyellow rind, which is crossed here and there bypurple stripes. The green part has completely disappeared. Ideally, only pick fruits from this nightshade plant that are no longer green.
How can I recognize a ripe pear melon after picking?
While unripe pear melons have hard flesh and no smell, ripe pear melons aresoftandhave an exotic smell Do the smell test on the peel: If you smell a fine melon, the fruits are most likely ripe and have their characteristic taste of pear and melon. After you cut the Pepino open, you should see yellow, soft and juicy flesh. The seeds of ripe fruits are fully developed and light brown in color.
Can I harvest the pear melon before it is ripe?
A melon pearcanbe harvestedbeforereaching fullripeness These fruits ripen if left in a warm place for a few days. However, they can also be encouraged to ripen at a temperature between 10 and 15 °C. Then the process takes a little longer, which is an advantage if you have a lot of melon pears that you don't want to ripen all at once.
Tip
Just refrigerate too many ripe pear melons
You have harvested too many ripe Pepino fruits and now you don't know how to eat them all at once? Pear melons can be kept refrigerated for one to two weeks. So just put them in the fridge.
