It’s frustrating when your beautiful, homegrown veggies start rotting before you’ve had a chance to enjoy them. With the right storage methods, you'll be able to enjoy the fruits (or veggies!) of your labor long after the growing season ends. Proper storage techniques can help you extend the life of your produce and prevent them from spoiling.
Choose the Best Pumpkins and Squash
Pumpkins and squash are warm-season crops that grow best in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. They are typically ready to harvest in the fall, but the exact timing will depend on the variety and your location. When choosing the best pumpkins and squash for storage, look for ones free of blemishes, cracks, or soft spots. The skin should be firm and complex, and the stem should be attached and dry. The pumpkin or squash may not fully mature or store well if the stem is still green.
You may also be interested in this article: How to Choose the Best Pumpkins at the Pumpkin Patch.
Post-Harvest Cleaning
After harvesting your pumpkins and squash, handling them properly is essential to ensure they last as long as possible. It's vital to clean them to remove any dirt or debris that could lead to decay. However, avoiding using water during this cleaning process is advisable, as excess moisture can lead to rot. Postharvest washing with water can escalate the potential risk of microbial contamination. A more suitable approach would be using a soft-bristled brush or cloth to wipe off any dirt or debris gently.
Post-Harvest Curing
Curing is a process that helps pumpkins and squash develop a hard rind, which allows them to resist decay. To cure your pumpkins and squash, place them in a warm, dry location with good air circulation. Ideal temperatures and relative humidity for curing are between 80 and 85°F with 75 to 80 percent. Leave them there for about ten days.
Inspect for Damage
Before storing your pumpkins and squash, inspect them for any signs of damage, such as cuts, bruises, or soft spots. These areas are more prone to decay and can quickly spread to the rest of the fruit. If you notice any damage, use these fruits first or cut out the damaged area before storing them.
Storage Temperature and Humidity
The ideal temperature for storing pumpkins and squash is 50° and 60°F. If the temperature is too warm, the fruit may begin to rot, while if it's too cold, the fruit may become damaged or develop mold. Additionally, the relative humidity should be between 50% and 70% in a well-ventilated area. This will help prevent the fruit from drying out and becoming shriveled.
Store your pumpkins and squash in a cool, dry place like a basement or garage to achieve these conditions. If you don't have a suitable storage area, you can purchase a specialized storage container or use a cool room in your home.
Light Exposure
Pumpkins and squash should be stored in a dark area to prevent them from rotting or developing mold. Exposure to light can cause the fruit to break down and spoil more quickly. If you're storing your pumpkins and squash in a room with windows, cover them with a cloth or paper bag to block out any light.
Store in Shelves
Shelving is an excellent option for those with limited space but still want to store their pumpkins and squash for an extended period. You can use any shelving as long as it is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the squash.
Store in Pallets
If you have a larger space, pallets can efficiently store your pumpkins and squash. Pallets allow for more airflow around the squash, which can help prevent rotting.
Root Cellars
Root cellars have been used for centuries to store vegetables and fruits for the long term. If you have a root cellar available, it can be an excellent option for keeping your pumpkins and squash. No matter which option you choose, regularly check your pumpkins and squash for any signs of rotting or damage.
Preventing Rot and Mold
One of the most common issues with storing pumpkins and squash is rot and mold. To prevent this, inspect your pumpkins and squash regularly and remove any signs of rot or mold. Keep your storage area well-ventilated and dry, as moisture can encourage mold and rot growth. If you do notice mold or rot on your pumpkins or squash, you may be able to salvage them by cutting away the affected areas. However, if the mold or rot has spread too far, it may be best to discard the affected fruit.
Shrinking and Softening
Another common issue with storing pumpkins and squash is shrinking and softening. This can be caused by various factors, including improper curing, improper storage conditions, or simply aging. Properly cure your pumpkins and squash before storing them to prevent shrinking and softening. If your pumpkins or squash have already started to shrink or soften, there may not be much you can do to salvage them.
However, you may be able to extend their shelf life by moving them to a more relaxed storage area or by wrapping them in plastic to help retain moisture.
Discoloration
Discoloration is another common issue with stored pumpkins and squash. This can be caused by exposure to light or improper storage conditions. Store your pumpkins and squash in a dark, cool place to prevent discoloration. Avoid stacking them too closely together, as this can trap heat and moisture and lead to discoloration.
If your pumpkins or squash have already started to discolor, you may be able to salvage them by cutting away the affected areas. However, if the discoloration has spread too far, it may be best to discard the affected fruit.
Supply of Pumpkins All Year Round!
Remember to check on your stored pumpkins and squash regularly. Discard any that show signs of spoilage or decay to prevent them from contaminating the rest of your harvest. Proper storage can help extend the shelf life of your pumpkins and squash, but it's essential to use them before they go bad. Plenty of recipes are available online if you're looking for creative ways to use your stored pumpkins and squash.
From pumpkin pie to roasted squash, there are endless possibilities. You can use the seeds to make a tasty snack or add them to your favorite trail mix. Don't forget to save some seeds for next year's harvest! Adequately stored seeds can remain viable for several years, so you can continue to grow your pumpkins and squash for years to come.