The rainy season brings with it the cool showers of rain but it also brings many problems which trouble people. Like in this rainy season, vegetables start rotting very quickly. Especially, potatoes are the biggest victim of this. If they are not used quickly in this season, they start rotting. Sometimes within just 2 to 3 days, potatoes start rotting from inside due to which a very bad smell starts coming. In such a situation, if you try some of these tips and know the right way to store potatoes, then there will be no need to throw potatoes.
Why do potatoes get spoiled in the rain?
Rainy season often has hot temperatures, which rapidly increases the microorganisms causing rotting. If there is less ventilation at the place where you have kept the potatoes, then also the potatoes can get spoiled. Rain can splash soil onto potatoes, spreading diseases such as late blight, scab or blackleg, which can cause rot. Rain can attract pests such as potato beetles or aphids, which can spread diseases and cause rot.
Try these measures to prevent potatoes from rotting
Store in a cool, dry place: Keep potatoes away from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
Use a breathable container: Store potatoes in paper bags, mesh bags or containers with holes for air flow.
Keep them dry: Make sure potatoes are completely dry before storing them. Too much moisture can cause them to rot.
Don’t wash them before storing: Too much moisture can cause them to rot. Instead, gently brush off any dirt or debris.
Monitor the temperature: Store potatoes in an area with a temperature between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C).
Don’t store with other vegetables: Some vegetables, such as apples and onions, release ethylene gas, which can cause potatoes to spoil faster.