'Farmers are doing it tough': Why watermelons are so expensive right now

Eye-watering prices have hit one of Australia's favourite summer fruits this week with watermelons going for a staggering $35 in some areas.

Woolworths are charging $3.90 a kilo, while Coles is asking for $4.50.

But while this may seem like a lot compared to other fruits and vegetables right now, Red Rich Fruits greengrocer Matt Palise said these prices won't last.

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"The Northern Territory season is ending early and the Queensland growers haven't started their season, so there's a two or three-week gap," Matt told Today.

"But you're still getting a kilo of watermelon for less than the price of a cup of coffee or latte, so it's still reasonable value."

Matt explained rain has delayed the Queensland growers season beginning, but supplies will increase in time for summer and there is plenty of other tasty alternatives to keep the family satisfied in the meantime.

"For two or three weeks you are going to have to substitute, so I would look for blueberries, raspberries, even strawberries are really good value at the moment," he said.

"Farmers are doing it tough but you will see prices ease out of Queensland in the coming weeks and there is some beautiful watermelons coming too."

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