BUDS
The cool fall weather is exciting for gardeners as this is the time of year when the harvest begins for root vegetables planted back in the spring.
In case you forgot, if you followed along with our gardening suggestions over the past few months, you should have a bumper crop of wonderful sweet potatoes waiting to be unearthed. I know you perhaps forgot that underneath those wilting sweet potato vines are treasures that bury themselves beneath the earth waiting for the moment when you come along to set them free.
So put on the gloves, and let’s harvest potatoes. Here are some great tips to help you make the most of your finds.
- If you planted your potatoes in pots, simply turn the pots upside down to remove the potatoes form the soil.
- For ground planters, using a spade or small shovel, dig out the potatoes, being careful not to bruise them as you loosen the soil around them.
- Spread the potatoes out on newspaper and using a soft cloth or paper towels, brush away all loose dirt. Do not wash.
- Store in a nice bed of dry straw by layering and covering each layer with straw. Store in a cool dry place until ready to use.
- When ready to use, wash potatoes thoroughly.
Enjoy the harvest!
