One thing to put together a good beet crop, and quite another to keep it throughout the winter. After all, if vegetables are spoiled, all efforts will be in vain.
Therefore, today we will focus on how I store the beets in a simple apartment in such a way that it does not spoil during the winter.
I want to say right away that the apartment I is the most common, and no special tools are not available. Therefore, my advice to suit all Russian gardeners.
1. Choosing a storage location
First we need to decide where you will store the beets. Usually, it is either a loggia or a refrigerator. Both options have their pros and cons.
1.1 What are the advantages of storage in a refrigerator
The main advantage of the storage of beets in the refrigerator - constant temperature and humidity.
A serious drawback - place. Usually, refrigerator autumn packed to capacity and space for root crops simply do not have.
1.2 Advantages of storage on the balcony
In contrast to the refrigerator, on the balcony seats abound. However, strong changes in temperature and humidity create unfavorable conditions for the storage of beets.
Since the fridge I have a very small, to keep the beets, I can only on the balcony. (With temperature changes, I coped on their own - a bit to warm a loggia.)
The ideal storage temperature - about 2-3 degrees.
2. Prepare the beets for storage
To beet has been strong and juicy throughout the year, it is necessary to properly prepare for storage. This is done in several stages. (I've got 5, here they are)
2.1 The right to harvest
Harvest is necessary only in dry weather. Excess moisture is likely to lead to the fact that the fruit will rot.
Beets collected in the rainy and humid weather is unlikely to survive the winter. I advise you not to rush and wait for dry weather. I believe that before the harvest should be at least 2-3 dry, bright day.
2.2 Sort the beets
Immediately after harvest, to sort all damaged and soft fruit. For the winter leaving only healthy vegetables.
2.3 Clear the roots
Beet, which was sorted for long-term storage, thoroughly cleaned from the ground and dust. Only the pure fruit can be stored all winter. Take the time to remove the dirt.
2.4 cropped tops
Next, take the sharpest knife and cut off the tops. In no case do not break or tear off the leaves. This will damage the root. You need to cut smoothly, without touching the fruit itself.
2.5 dried beet
Once roots are sorted, cleaned and separated from the foliage, they must be dried. This is done very simply.
Spread paper on the floor in a dry, well-ventilated area. After that, spread roots in a row so as to leave a distance of at least 1.2 cm between them. Only in such circumstances, beets can get rid of excess surface moisture.
You need to dry for one day. It is desirable to flip through the fruit 12 hours after the start of drying. This will allow to get rid of the moisture evenly.
3. Reserve for storage
Store beets are best in wicker baskets or wooden boxes ventilated. No plastic boxes, iron buckets and basins. Roots should be well ventilated, otherwise accumulate moisture, and they begin to rot.
Small and healthy fruit is necessary to put on the bottom of the basket, they are best stored and they can be picked up at the last moment. Large roots better to put on top, so they will be aired and you eat them faster.
If the air is moist enough beets can sprinkle wood ash, it will absorb moisture.
Such guileless beet storage technology helps me to keep the entire crop and not lose any svekolki.
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