Hort Shorts for October 2, 2020 -- Fruits and Vegetables
 |
Storing ApplesStore in a cool (near 32°F), humid (90% RH), dark place. A refrigerator is best, but a cool root cellar or garage is okay. If refrigerated, store in perforated plastic bags to increase humidity. |
|
|
 |
Storing CarrotsHarvest after a couple light frosts and when the soil is dry. Gently remove soil. Do not wash roots before storing. This promotes rotting and removes beneficial bacteria in the soil near the skin that fight decay. Wash roots only before you eat them. Trim each top to ¼ inch. Longer tops will lead to more decay. Shorter tops will cause roots to dry. Put in perforated plastic bags to increase humidity and allow for air circulation. A cool (32–38°F), humid (95% RH) site is best. |
|
|
 |
Storing PotatoesRemove loose dirt and avoid bruising. Do not wash. Cure for 2 weeks in a dark, well-ventilated area with temps in the 50s and high humidity. Store in mesh or perforated bags, crates or vented boxes. A very dark, cool (45°F), humid (90% RH) site is best. |
|
|
 |
Discard Diseased PlantsRemove or deeply bury diseased plants or fruits in the garden. This will reduce the likelihood of infection next year. Do not compost. Most compost piles do not reach the heat required (150–180°F) to kill fungi on diseased plants. |
|
|
 |
Test Your Garden SoilA soil test can lead to healthier plants and higher yields. You will learn nutrient levels, acidity, salinity and organic matter levels. For more info and forms, go to NDSU Soil Testing Lab and get their Lawn & Garden Soil package. |
Written by Tom Kalb, Extension Horticulturist, North Dakota State University. The photos were made available under Creative Commons licenses specified by the photographers: Jim Sorbie; arbyreed; Ishikawa Ken; Emily; and Kate. Published in the NDSU Yard & Garden Report for October 2, 2020.
Recent Hort Shorts -- Fruits and Vegetables: September 17, 2020.
