How to Store: Stone Fruit

Peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots, and cherries are at their best when they’re ripe — but that window can be short. Proper storage helps you enjoy stone fruit at peak flavor instead of losing it to bruising or rot.

Here’s how to store stone fruit the right way.

The Basics of Stone Fruit Storage

1. Ripen at Room Temperature
Unripe stone fruit should be left on the counter, out of direct sunlight, until fragrant and slightly soft.

2. Refrigerate Once Ripe
Once ripe, move fruit to the refrigerator to slow further ripening.
This extends freshness by 3–5 days.

3. Handle Gently
Stone fruit bruises easily. Store in a single layer when possible.

How to Store Different Stone Fruits

  • Peaches & Nectarines:
    Best stored stem-side down. Refrigerate once ripe.

  • Plums & Apricots:
    Slightly firmer skins, but still benefit from gentle handling and refrigeration after ripening.

  • Cherries:
    Skip the counter. Store unwashed in the fridge immediately for best results.

Storage Do’s & Don’ts

  • Do keep fruit dry until ready to use.

  • Do use breathable containers or paper bags.

  • Don’t wash fruit before storing.

  • Don’t stack or crowd ripe fruit.

When to Use or Compost

Use fruit quickly if you notice:

  • Soft spots or leaking juice

  • Strong fermented smell

  • Mold (discard immediately)

Stone fruit is meant to be enjoyed fresh and in season. With just a little care, you can stretch that sweet summer window and savor every bite.

storageJenna Viles