Making a Root Cellar

Root cellars can be an excellent way of increasing self-sufficiency. By storing vegetables and fruits that might otherwise go unsown or harvest at times convenient to you, they give access to these foods later when they come into season – saving money as a result! In addition, having such a space helps build resilience into your home in case of disaster or disruption to power supplies.

When building your own root cellar, professional contractors are essential. They will know where the ideal spot for it is as well as how best to dig underneath your home without harming its foundation, plus provide information on piping and electrical wiring needs, which may become essential if using it as living space.

As part of your root cellar’s design, it is recommended that it has a sloping ground surface with good drainage in order to regulate humidity levels and avoid waterlogging which could potentially ruin or spoil food products. A vaulted ceiling would also help lower humidity levels more than flat ones.

Temperature-wise, your root cellar should ideally fall between 32-50 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal storage of produce as this temperature can help slow the release of ethylene gas which causes produce to spoil and mold. An underground root cellar would make storage even more effective and is usually cooler than what can be achieved within your home environment.

If you can’t dig under your home, a root cellar can still be created using space in either your garage or attic. Just ensure to insulate this area properly and keep any hot water pipes away. Also consider including a thermometer and vent to monitor both temperature and humidity levels.

Many people prefer using earthbags when creating a root cellar, as they’re easy to set up and can be filled with soil or organic material for food storage. Be mindful that only organic material should be used since any chemicals could leak through and cause early spoilage of stored goods.

As part of your root cellar arrangement, it is imperative that items that produce high amounts of ethylene gas (apples, pears, tomatoes) from those that don’t (carrots and beets). Ethylene gas production can cause other crops to rot due to its harmful influence.

Label the shelves or bins where you store your produce to help remember what items were added when. Also write on each container what its purpose is and when its consumption should occur.


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