Storing root crops

chimboodle04

How does everyone store root crops for use throughout the winter? We are in zone five and grow potatoes, carrots, parsnips, beets, etc... I am looking for some natural storage suggestions, not canning or freezing, which is what we usually do. I would love to see pics of your setup if possible! Thanks :)

Ruth Ann Reyes

Do you have a basement?

chimboodle04

@Ruth Reyes-Loiacano yes - we have tried storing potatoes down there but they do not make it much past december...thinking the conditions are not right...

merlin44

I store root veggies layered in straw in milk crates in the coolest part of the house. That works well for me. I have heard of layering them in newspaper or sawdust although I've never tried that.

Ruth Ann Reyes

https://community.thegrownetwork.com/discussion/comment/843604#Comment_843604

Since I live in Texas, I keep them in a back up refrigerator. :)

hmsadmin

Seconding @merlin44 here, though I've not done it myself yet, I see a ton of people recommend storing them in bins, filled with sawdust/straw/newspaper in the coolest part of your home. And to have your packing material fully surround each veggie so they don't touch. Apparently they can rot faster if they're touching, or build up mold easier.