If storing carrots and be... - Ask Extension
If storing carrots and beets in an underground root cellar at 35 degrees with 85-90% humidity is it necessary to pack the roots in damp sand or sawdus...
Knowledgebase
If storing carrots and be... #149288
Asked August 26, 2013, 11:21 AM EDT
If storing carrots and beets in an underground root cellar at 35 degrees with 85-90% humidity is it necessary to pack the roots in damp sand or sawdust? (can the roots be stored loosley in bins without such insulation?)
Are pine shavings (such as those sold in bales for animal bedding) safe to to use? (does the pine impart any flavor to the stored crop?)
Clearwater County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for your question for eXtension. The topic area in which you've made a request is not yet fully staffed by eXtension experts and therefore we cannot provide you with a timely answer. Instead, if you live in the United States, please consider contacting the Cooperative Extension office closest to you. Any broken, bruised or damaged carrots should be stored in your refrigerator for use.
Sorry for the above, I am not quite sure how that generic response was sent to you. Damp sand (not wet) should be used for storage. Organic materials will tend to decompose. Be careful not to bruise your carrots. Snap off the top and allow to dry. Any broken, bruised or damaged carrots should be stored in your refrigerator for use. Dampen sand in a separate container. Then put a layer of sand in your container, then a layer of carrots, repeat.
