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Root cellars are making a comeback!
Having fresh food without electricity has great advantages for those interested in food security. We’ve had so many power out
Family Food Garden may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
Root cellars are making a comeback!
Having fresh food without electricity has great advantages for those interested in food security. We’ve had so many power outages where we live (the electricity lines going through forest trees) that having food on hand that isn’t dependent on electricity is a major bonus. Although I’m trying to grow food year-round and have awesome fall and winter gardening (even with our Canadian winters & snow!) there is a point that the snow becomes too deep and crops are harvested and stored in root cellars.
What is a Root Cellar?
Root cellars have been used for thousands of years and were essential before the times of refrigeration. Root cellars use properties of the earth to keep many crops cool like carrots, potatoes, carrots, beets, turnips, parsnips, cabbages & other crops cool and fresh during the winter months.
A root cellar may be buried under the ground, in a basement corner or even made with garbage bins. Temperature, humidity, ventilation are all important aspects of a proper root cellar to prevent spoilage:
- Root cellar temperature of 32ºF/0C to 40º F/4.4C and a humidity level of 85 to 95 percent.
- The cooler temperatures slows the release of ethylene gas and stops the grow of microorganisms that make your produce decompose.
- Ventilation is needed to
- The humidity level prevents loss of moisture through evaporation—and the withering looks that go along with it.
Root Cellar Design
Make this root cellar by burying a new concrete septic tank into a hillside. See the root cellar plans from Mother Earth News
More root cellar designs from Custommade
What Crops can you Store?
Cold and Damp Storage: Store these at 32 to 40 F (0-4.5C) with 90-95 percent humidity.
- Brussels Sprouts
- Jerusalem Artichokes
- Winter Radishes
Cool and Dry Storage: Store these varieties at 50-60F (10-15C) with 60-70 percent humidity.
- Sweet Potatoes
Custommade has great infographics on what crops to store & how
My name is Isis Loran, creator of the Family Food Garden. I’ve been gardening for over 10 years now and push the limits of our zone 5 climates. I love growing heirlooms & experimenting with hundreds of varieties, season extending, crunchy homesteading and permaculture.