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.
