After you have dug up your Solanum tuberosum , the next step is to cure them . cure is a process that helps ameliorate the storage life of potato by leave their skins to inspissate and any pocket-sized injuries to cure . This is important because it helps protect the potato from diseases and moulder during storage .
First , you ’ll want to clean the potatoes by gently brush off any redundant malicious gossip or debris . Avoid wash them with urine , as this can increase the moisture content and lead to decay . Once they are cleaned , it ’s time to start out the curing process .
Find a dark , well - ventilated surface area where you may store the potatoes for about a hebdomad to 10 days . This could be a basement , cellar , or a cool , dark corner of your service department . The temperature should be restrained , ideally around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit ( 10 to 15 degree Celsius ) , and the humidity should be relatively high .
circularise out the potatoes in a single layer on a clean control surface , such as a wooden table or a conducting wire mesh rack . ensure there is enough space between them for aviation to circulate freely . This helps prevent the buildup of moisture and the growth of mold or bacteria .
During the cure process , crack on the potatoes regularly to ensure that none of them are rotting or showing signaling of disease . Remove any discredited or diseased potato forthwith to prevent the cattle ranch of infection to the healthy ace .
After the curing period , it ’s time to prepare the potatoes for recollective - condition store . Slowly contract the temperature to around 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit ( 4 to 7 degree Anders Celsius ) . This can be done by moving them to a cooler placement , such as a base cellar or a refrigerator set up to a high temperature .
Keep in intellect that potatoes should not be stored near fruit that release ethylene gas , such as apples , as this can cause them to sprout or decay quicker . It ’s also crucial to stash away them aside from onions , as the two can absorb each other ’s relish .
When salt away the potatoes , utilise breathable container such as burlap dismissal , paper grip , or wooden crates . These allow for air circulation , forestall wet buildup and extend the shelf life of the potatoes . Avoid using credit card bag , as they can trap moisture and encourage putrefaction .
on a regular basis check on your lay in potatoes and take away any that are showing mansion of spoiling . It ’s best to practice the white potato with any sprouting or delicate spots first , as they will not salt away as long as the respectable 1 .
By take these steps , you’re able to see to it that your freshly drudge potatoes have a longer ledge life history and put up you with toothsome meal for months to add up . Remember , accept the prison term to the right way bring around and lay in your potatoes will help you make the most of your harvest and reduce nutrient waste .
Caroline Bates
