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If you want to enjoy fresh, homegrown potatoes at any time of the year, it is imperative that you store garden potatoes for an extended period of time. Potatoes are a type of root vegetable that may be preserved for an extended amount of time in a number of different ways, ensuring that they will continue to be fresh and edible for as long as possible. In this piece, we will discuss some of the most useful techniques for keeping potatoes for an extended period of time.
If you are new to this blog my name is Ashley and I am a soil scientist. I am located in a Canadian Zone 3 and a USDA Zone 4. I write articles, make YouTube videos, Instagram & Facebook posts all designed for Canadians and Cold Climate gardeners using science-based methods. If you are looking for anything specific be sure to let me know in the comments down below.
Methods for storing garden potatoes long term:
- cool and dark storage,
- Idaho mashed,
- pressure canned,
- burlap bags,
- sand,
- straw, boxes
- mesh baskets
Storage that is both cool and dark
When not in use, potatoes should be kept in an area that is cool and dark, such as a basement or root cellar. The temperature range of 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit is considered to be the most favourable for the storage of potatoes. It is possible to keep potatoes from sprouting and softening by storing them in a location that is cool and dark.
Idaho mashed potato style
Making mashed potatoes in the same manner as you typically would, but omitting the milk and butter from the mixture, is all that is required to accomplish this. Following this step, dry the mashed potatoes to produce a powder that can be stored in mylar for later use.
Burlap or paper bags
A fantastic method for maintaining the freshness of potatoes is to store them in paper or burlap bags. The potatoes are able to breathe in the bags, which thwarts the growth of rot and mould on the potatoes. Make sure that the bags are stored in an area that is both cool and dark.
Pressure Canned
Because of this, you will always have potatoes that are in a state of readiness, even at the last minute. Simply adhering to a tried-and-true recipe will get you where you need to go. A listing for it can be found on this website.
Sand
Sand is an additional medium that can be used for the long-term storage of potatoes. Place the potatoes in an area that is cool and dark, then cover them with a few inches of sand and put them away. The sand will assist in preventing the potatoes from rotting and will aid to keep them dry.
Straw
Straw, much like sand, is a suitable medium for the long-term storage of potatoes. Put the potatoes in the container, then cover them with straw to keep them from drying out. The potatoes will not rot as easily if they are kept dry with the help of the straw.
In a container
Potatoes should be kept in a place that is cool, dark, and dry and stored in a box. Ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the box. Be sure to check on the potatoes on a regular basis and remove any that show signs of rotting or are beginning to develop mushy areas.
In a basket made of mesh or wire: Potatoes can be stored in a basket made of mesh or wire, which enables air to circulate around the potatoes even when they are stored. Place the basket in a cool, dark location, and examine the potatoes on a regular basis to look for any symptoms of rot or soft patches.
In conclusion, potatoes can be kept for an extended period of time in a number of different ways, including storage that is cool and dark, sacks made of burlap or paper, sand, straw, a box, or a wire or mesh basket. If you follow these guidelines, you will be able to harvest your own crop of fresh potatoes throughout the entire year. It is essential to keep in mind that it is possible to prevent contamination of any potatoes that have been stored by doing routine inspections and eliminating any potatoes that have begun to rot or become mushy.
