How To Store Garden Vegetables Over The Winter

Storing Vegetables Outdoors Over The Winter What Grows There Hugh from www.whatgrowsthere.com

Do you want to keep your garden vegetables fresh and tasty over the winter? If so, then you need to know the correct way to store them. There are a few different methods for storing your garden vegetables and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we’ll look at the best ways to store your garden vegetables over the winter so that they stay fresh and delicious.

What Vegetables Can Be Stored Over the Winter?

The first thing you need to determine is which vegetables can be stored over the winter. Generally speaking, root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and beets are the best to store over the winter. Other vegetables like squash, green beans, and peas can also be stored, but they don’t keep as well. Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach should not be stored over the winter as they will quickly wilt and become inedible.

How to Store Root Vegetables Over the Winter

The best way to store root vegetables over the winter is to put them in a cool, dark place. An unheated basement or garage is ideal. You should first clean the vegetables and make sure there are no blemishes or soft spots. Then you should store them in a container with a lid, like a plastic bin or a cardboard box. Make sure the lid is securely closed so that no animals or insects can get in.

Once the vegetables are stored, you should check them regularly. Remove any vegetables that have become soft or spoiled. You should also check the container for any mold or mildew. If you find any, discard the affected vegetables and clean the container before storing again.

How to Store Squash and Other Vegetables Over the Winter

Storing squash and other vegetables over the winter is slightly more difficult than storing root vegetables. You should first clean the vegetables and make sure there are no blemishes or soft spots. Then, you should wrap them individually in newspaper or paper towel and store them in a cool, dark place. An unheated basement or garage is ideal.

Another option is to store the squash in a perforated plastic bag. This will help to keep the squash fresh and prevent it from getting moldy. You should check the squash regularly and discard any that have become soft or spoiled. You should also check the bag for any mold or mildew and discard the affected vegetables.

How to Store Green Beans and Peas Over the Winter

Green beans and peas are slightly more delicate than other vegetables and require a different method of storage. First, you should clean the vegetables and make sure there are no blemishes or soft spots. Then, you should blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes. This will help to preserve their flavor and texture.

After blanching, you should shock the vegetables in cold water and then pat them dry. Once they’re dry, you can store them in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator. This method should keep the vegetables fresh for up to two months.

How to Store Leafy Greens Over the Winter

Leafy greens should not be stored over the winter as they will quickly wilt and become inedible. If you want to keep some of your leafy greens fresh during the winter, you should store them in the refrigerator. First, you should clean the greens and make sure there are no blemishes or soft spots. Then, you should wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method should keep the greens fresh for up to a week.

Conclusion

Storing your garden vegetables over the winter is a great way to make sure that you have fresh, delicious produce all year round. The best way to do this is to store root vegetables in a cool, dark place, store squash and other vegetables in newspaper or paper towel, store green beans and peas in the refrigerator, and store leafy greens in the refrigerator. With the right storage methods, you can enjoy your garden vegetables all winter long!