Gardener cuts into undersized watermelon with rot, and finds bright red fruit inside

A tiny homegrown watermelon picked early because of rot left one gardener wondering if it was still safe to eat.

Here's what to know

The original poster talked in Reddit's r/Gardening community about a very small homegrown watermelon they had. They had picked it because of rot on the outside, but when they sliced it open, they discovered it was bright red on the inside.

The OP later explained, "They're icebox melons. I just plucked this one because of the rot, figured why not cut into it. Low and behold it looks yummy, and it's like 1/16th the size it's supposed to be."

One commenter wrote, "Most pathogens can't be transferred through bites or scrapes on fruit or vegetables as long as you peel it or in most cases just wash it. The fruits and vegtibles have their own immune system. If it's rotten on the inside then definitely throw it out."

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension would generally agree. If it's just on the surface of a fruit, especially if you'll cook it, it should be fine to eat. When that rot goes beneath the surface and into the center of the fruit, that's when you should throw it out.

Broken skin on produce can also introduce human pathogens into food. When in doubt, be cautious, and don't risk your health to eat food.

Why is this important to know?

Small size, odd shapes, or surface damage can make gardeners second-guess whether their harvest is still worth eating.

Growing fruits and vegetables at home can help families immensely, especially when grocery prices are high. Even if it might look a little ugly to you at times, that's still money saved.

Many gardeners also say homegrown food tastes better since it can be harvested at peak ripeness instead of being picked early for shipping.

Gardening can support mental health by reducing stress and giving people a calming outdoor routine. And actions like digging and weeding involved can add physical activity to daily life.

What can be done?

Don't assume a fruit is inedible just because it is undersized or looks unusual. And like the Extension said, internal rot is a clear reason to throw it out.

For anyone hoping to get more comfortable with backyard harvests, growing your own food can be a useful way to build confidence, cut grocery costs, and enjoy fresher, more flavorful produce.

Each season gives gardeners more experience judging ripeness, spotting damage, and figuring out what is worth saving.

The OP later reported back, "Update: it was yummy."

Another Redditor shared a simple way to turn watermelon into a tasty treat: "If you cut it in half and cut out a little bowl shape out of the middle, then freeze the half melon, then pour in some cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt. I like vanilla but you could add whatever toppings you want I guess. Mix it around as the melon thaws and it makes an awesome watermelon icecream!"

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