How to store your potato harvest: Keep it fresh as long as possible

Gardeners often plant a lot of potatoes, and sometimes it can be quite difficult to harvest and maintain a crop.

If you do not have plans to sell most of the crop, then you need to know how to store it properly.

Here are some tips on how to keep potatoes fresh for a long time.

Choose the right storage location

Find a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area in your home to store potatoes. 

 Avoid storing them near sources of heat or direct sunlight, as this can accelerate spoilage.

Keep them dry

Remove any soil or excess moisture by gently brushing them or allowing them to air-dry naturally for a short period.

Handle with care

Inspect them before storage and remove any potatoes with cuts, bruises, or signs of decay, as they can spoil more rapidly and affect nearby potatoes.

Do not wash before storage

Washing can remove the protective natural layer on the skin, making them more susceptible to spoilage.

Use appropriate storage containers

Choose breathable storage containers for your potatoes. 

Separate from other produce

Store potatoes separately from other produce items, especially those sensitive to ethylene, such as apples, onions, and bananas.

Check regularly and remove any spoiling potatoes

Remove any spoiling potatoes promptly to prevent the spread of spoilage to the rest of the batch.

Do not refrigerate

Cold temperatures can convert the potato starches into sugars and affect the taste and texture. 
 

• Related news:
• food storage
• harvest
• potatoes
• gardening tips
• 13 June 2023

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