Storing the harvest

Feeling overwhelmed by the produce piling up?  Don't worry, there are lots of ways to properly store your goodies so they will keep until a less bountiful day.

• Carrots store well in a cool place for several weeks.  Cut off all but an inch of the greens, place in a plastic bag with some holes cut in it (so they can breath) and put in a dry cool spot (the fridge is ok, an unheated cellar during the winter is even better). Beets can be stored in a similar way.

• Basil will keep for several days if stood in a glass of water, like you would keep cut flowers.  Cold can damage and blacken the leaves so we actually don't recommend putting it in the refrigerator, or if you do put it in a warm corner.  A part of the kitchen that is not to hot or the dining room table might be better.  You can also make pesto out of your basil and freeze it to use during the winter.  Basil will also dry well, but in our humid climate you may want to use a food dehydrator to do so.
• Tarragon dries well just by hanging it upside down in a dry spot with good air circulation.

• Cabbages can keep well for several weeks in a cool place.  If the outside leaves start to look a little dingy just peel them off and the interior should be fine.

• Chard and Kale both freeze well if lightly blanched, chopped and stored in a plastic or glass container.
• Salad greens will taste best the first day or two, but if you want to store them longer dry them thoroughly (you might even consider putting a dry paper towel in the bag to sap up moisture) and store them in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
• Tomatoes can be frozen whole or dried in a dehydrator.
• We can't really imagine your peaches lasting too long (many CSA members have admitted to eating them on the drive home and one member couldn't even wait until leaving Vinewood Knoll), but if you are inclined to save them for later they freeze very well if sliced and placed in a plastic or glass container.

• Your cut flowers should last all week long if tended to properly.  As soon as you get home re-cut the stems and place them in cool clean water.  They will keep longest if kept in a cool spot, out of direct sunlight.  Change the water every few days and remove wilted flowers for best results.