The vibrant summer days have given way to the cool breezes of autumn. At this time of year, many gardeners and farmers find themselves with an abundance of fresh produce from their fall harvest: crisp apples, root vegetables and herbs. If you want to continue enjoying the taste of fall through the colder months, proper storage and preservation techniques are essential. This guide from the Gretna farmers market will help you store and preserve your fall harvest!
Storing root vegetables
Root vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, beets, and parsnips are staples of the fall harvest. Fortunately, these vegetables are perfect for long-term storage if handled correctly.
How to store:
Cool and dark
Root vegetables should be stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 32°F and 40°F with high humidity. A basement, root cellar, or even a garage can be ideal spots if the temperature is controlled.
Remove greens
Cut off the leafy tops of vegetables like carrots and beets, as the greens will draw moisture from the roots, causing them to spoil more quickly.
Avoid washing
Do not wash root vegetables before storage. Simply brush off excess dirt and store them as-is, as washing can introduce moisture that may lead to rot.
Stored properly, root vegetables can last for months, making them a reliable food source throughout the winter.
Storing apples and pears
Apples and pears are autumn favorites that can last well into the winter months with the right storage.
How to store:
Cool temperature
Store apples and pears in a cool location around 30-35°F. A refrigerator works well, but if you have a large quantity, a basement or unheated garage will suffice.
Separate from other produce
Apples emit ethylene gas, which can cause other fruits and vegetables to ripen prematurely. Store them separately or in a ventilated container to avoid this issue.
Check regularly
Be sure to check your apples and pears for any signs of spoilage or bruising. One bad apple can spoil the bunch, so remove any damaged fruit promptly.
By storing apples and pears correctly, you can enjoy fresh fruit long after the harvest season has passed.
Freezing vegetables and herbs
For those looking to preserve their fall produce without much hassle, freezing is a simple and effective method.
How to freeze:
Blanch vegetables
Before freezing vegetables like green beans, carrots, and broccoli, blanch them by briefly boiling them in water and then plunging them into ice water. This process helps maintain their color, flavor, and texture.
Herbs
Herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro can be frozen for later use. Wash and chop the herbs, then place them in ice cube trays filled with water or olive oil. Once frozen, transfer the herb cubes to freezer bags for easy access when cooking.
Proper packaging
When freezing vegetables and herbs, make sure to use airtight containers or freezer-safe bags to prevent freezer burn.
Frozen vegetables and herbs can last up to a year in the freezer, ensuring you have access to fresh-tasting produce even in the dead of winter.
Canning for long-term storage
Canning is a traditional method of preserving food that allows you to store your harvest for months without refrigeration. It’s perfect for tomatoes, pickles, jams, and sauces.
How to can:
Water bath canning
This method is ideal for high-acid foods like tomatoes, fruits, and pickles. To ensure they are properly sealed, simply place your filled jars in a large pot of boiling water for a specified time.
Pressure canning
For low-acid foods like vegetables, beans, and meats, pressure canning is necessary to ensure food safety. This method uses a special pressure canner to process the jars at a higher temperature, killing any harmful bacteria.
Canning requires some practice, but it’s an excellent way to preserve the flavors of fall for use in soups, stews, and sauces throughout the winter.
Helpful tips from the Gretna farmers market
Whether you’re storing root vegetables in a cool space, freezing herbs for future use, or trying your hand at canning, there are plenty of ways to extend the life of your fall produce. By following these tips from the Gretna farmers market, you can savor the flavors of the harvest well into the winter and beyond!
Some of our vendors have perfected canning and preserving techniques, so if you’re looking for canned goodies this fall and winter, check out Golden Rose Homestead, Daniels Produce, and Butterfly Farms!
