Simple conditions for winter storage of potatoes on the balcony

To preserve the potato's nutritional value, it should be stored in a cool place (in a cellar or basement). If this isn't possible, a glassed-in balcony will do. Potatoes can also be stored in a specially prepared box. If you follow a few rules, the vegetable will stay fresh for several winter months.

How to properly store potatoes on the balcony

To preserve potatoes for long-term storage, ensure they are clean and dry. Damp and dirty potatoes will quickly rot, even at comfortable temperatures. If there's no risk of frost, clean and dry potatoes can be stored in a simple cardboard box.

Not all vegetables are suitable for winter storage. Only healthy tubers with no signs of rot should be selected. Damaged crops should not be stored next to healthy ones. Therefore, vegetables must be carefully sorted.

Storage conditions

Provide optimal storage conditions for potatoes Outdoor storage is impossible. But even if the room is glazed, proper preparation is essential. You can protect tubers from freezing using a foam box with walls at least 5 mm thick. If such a box has a lid, it will maintain a comfortable storage temperature.

Another option is a box made of boards or plywood. However, such a container will require additional insulation. Foam sheets can be used, again. They are placed on the bottom and sides of the box. Corrugated cardboard, laid in several layers, can also be used for this purpose. Additional thermal insulation can be achieved by using sheets of foil.

Preparing a storage space

The box shouldn't touch the concrete floor. It's recommended to place it on a raised platform. This will ensure the vegetables are perfectly preserved for several cold months. Another good option for storing tubers on the balcony is a non-working refrigerator.

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Those who don't want to set up their own storage unit should consider specialized balcony cellars. They can be purchased at many hardware stores. These units can hold up to three bags of potatoes. They can be placed in a convenient location or hung. Balcony cellars operate on electricity, so using them will significantly increase your electricity bills.

Tips and recommendations

The following tricks will also help you preserve your harvest throughout the winter.

1. If the outside temperature drops below -10°C, additional heating can be achieved using light bulbs. Electric lights should be directed at the potato box during severe frosts.
2. You can protect potatoes from rot by using rowan, fern, or wormwood leaves. These can be placed in several layers between or next to each other.
3. To protect the potatoes from dampness, the boxes can be additionally covered with plastic film.
4. It is recommended to store different varieties of potatoes in separate boxes.

Storage of root crops Growing vegetables on a glassed-in balcony in winter is no problem. A little preparation will allow you to enjoy delicious vegetables throughout the cold months. However, if the balcony is open, you'll have to give up on this idea.