For produce to remain edible beyond its natural shelf life, root cellar plans could be invaluable. A space that provides stable temperatures, humidity control and ventilation is required; its location also plays a part as different fruits and vegetables require different storage conditions.
Now, creating a cool root cellar from almost any existing space that can be properly insulated and ventilated is easier than ever! A basement or crawlspace are great spaces to utilize as they naturally remain cooler compared to outdoor air temperatures. Insulating this area with layers of vapor barriers and foam insulation will keep produce fresh for longer. Ventilation also plays an integral part in keeping spoilage at bay!
Another effective strategy for turning an unheated basement into a root cellar is installing a door and vapor barrier at the floor level, while adding a window in the rear wall. If you are concerned about rodents entering, add steel wire mesh over windows with locking systems secured with pins; as well as adding lighting and thermometer/hygrometer tools so you can monitor conditions all year long.
Homesteaders who live on a tight budget may wish to consider converting the foundation walls of their home into functional root cellars, using natural insulation provided by the earth to maintain ideal temperature conditions and achieve desired humidity levels. It provides a low-cost solution for maintaining ideal temperatures; in general, north-facing slopes provide maximum protection from harmful sun rays.
Many homes built on hillside locations make ideal places for creating root cellars. Here, the hillside serves as an effective insulator and allows shelving directly against foundation walls to be installed directly against them – this allows you to divide up storage areas into multiple zones that can store different types of produce efficiently.
Your shipping container can easily become an efficient root cellar! This design is easy and inexpensive to build; all that’s required for insulation is spray foam insulation. Additionally, you could build a roof on top of the container, planting grasses or sedums on it which will provide shaded soil cooling while also adding aesthetic value and providing further insulation of space – helping extend food’s longevity by further insulating it from heat or cold.