| What is the best way to store freshly harvested this fall for use this winter? We prefer raw ones rather than pickled or canned beets. |
| Dig your beets before a hard frost and cut off the leaves, leaving about a half inch of stem attached. Rinse off soil that clings to the roots, and allow them to air dry in a shady place. Beets and other root crops need cool (38F - 40F)temperatures and high humidity to keep fresh in storage. If you have enough room in your fridge, you can place the roots in a plastic bag with a moist paper towel, and store them in the crisper. Check them weekly for softening or mold growth. For long storage of larger quantities, a cool corner of your basement is best. Place roots in a crate of moist peat moss, sawdust, or sand, and maintain moisture and high humidity with a loose plastic cover. Again, check moisture levels weekly. Enjoy! |
