How do farmers store potatoes?
FAQs → How do farmers store potatoes?
You can never have too many potatoes, especially when it comes to long-term storage. As a survival expert and prepper, here's the lowdown on how farmers store potatoes to keep them fresh and minimize waste:
Cool, Dry Place
Farmers store potatoes in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. This can be a potato cellar, root cellar, or even an unheated garage. Ideal storage temperatures range between 40°F (4°C) and 50°F (10°C), with relative humidity below 60%.
Storing Potatoes Correctly
Farmers ensure the potatoes aren't touching each other, which helps prevent moisture buildup and reduces the risk of rot or mold. Potatoes are often placed in baskets, crates, or on old pallets in a single layer, with excess soil or debris removed.
Monitoring Temperature and Humidity
Farmers regularly monitor the storage area's temperature and humidity to maintain the ideal environment. This careful control prevents decay and helps preserve the potatoes’ quality.
Handling and Curing
Before storage, farmers "cure" their potatoes by exposing them to indirect sunlight or artificial light for a few days. This allows any cuts or bruises to heal, reducing the risk of rot later on. Gentle handling is also key to avoiding skin damage.
Pest Control
To keep pests away, farmers maintain a clean storage area, free of debris. They might use natural deterrents like diatomaceous earth or essential oils to ward off any critters.
These are the basics of how farmers store potatoes for the long haul. Whether you're prepping for survival or just storing up for future meals, these techniques will help keep your potato stash healthy and ready for anything—even if it's just the next potato salad party.
