How to Build a Root Cellar Cheap

Root cellars are an effective way of storing food for winter storage, perfect for keeping vegetables, potatoes and other crops cool while the temperatures drop. Though professional root cellars may cost thousands of dollars to construct, you can build one yourself at much less expense using creative and practical ingenuity. In this article I’ll show how you can do just that with minimal outlay of money and effort.

As part of creating a root cellar, the initial step involves digging a hole that measures at least 10 feet deep and 6 feet wide in an area where drainage is sufficient. Next, line the bottom of this hole with leaves, straw, sand or moss to absorb any moisture entering from outside, before layering on some insulation like shredded leaves or hay for further insulation – or place a hardware cloth lined lid overtop to provide added security.

Root cellars need to be built with care in order to withstand cold temperatures and moisture, with walls composed of bricks, concrete or cinder blocks as possible materials. While concrete offers superior durability at a reasonable cost, other recycled materials like used tires could save even more.

Assuring your root cellar is adequately insulated to protect it from extreme cold and humidity is of utmost importance, as is proper ventilation. Install an air intake and exhaust vent in your cellar space – with one located low near the ground while one high near the ceiling so as to allow fresh air into the cellar while stale air is continually expelled out – in order to ensure fresh air enters continuously while old air escapes outward. This will ensure an environment in which food remains at an ideal temperature and humidity level for storage purposes.

Once your ventilation system is in place, it’s time to finish the interior of your root cellar. Stairs should be installed for easy access since your cellar may be underground; wood shelves instead of metal will help maintain more consistent temperatures and avoid the risk of rust damage to food items stored within the cellar.

An alternative way of creating a DIY root cellar is burying a barrel in the ground – this inexpensive yet effective option provides all of the advantages associated with homesteading without breaking the bank! Just ensure it remains below freezing point in terms of temperature, as well as being protected from direct sunlight by being covered in dirt and rock to protect it from exposure. It’s an especially suitable option for beginners or homesteading beginners without enough funds available for investing in permanent root cellars.

Storing vegetables in a root cellar has the added bonus of aiding their development in spring and providing plenty of fresh produce throughout winter.


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