To store beetroot in sand and prevent shriveling, you need to layer the roots in moist sand within a container kept in a cool, dark, and frost-free location.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Preparation:
- Harvesting: Harvest your beetroot on a dry day, before the first hard frost.
- Cleaning: Gently brush off any excess soil. Do not wash the beetroot, as this can encourage rot.
- Trimming: Cut off the leafy tops about 1-2 inches above the crown of the beet. Also, trim the long root tails, leaving about 1-2 inches. Be careful not to damage the skin of the beetroot.
- Curing (Optional): Allow the beetroot to cure for a few days in a cool, dry place. This helps to toughen the skin and improve storage life.
2. Sand Preparation:
- Type of Sand: Use horticultural sand or builder's sand. Avoid using play sand, as it may contain additives.
- Moistening: The sand should be damp, not soaking wet. Add water gradually and mix thoroughly until the sand clumps together slightly when squeezed in your hand.
3. Layering in Sand:
- Container: Choose a container with drainage holes, such as a wooden box, plastic bin, or even a large terracotta pot.
- First Layer: Place a layer of moist sand (2-3 inches) at the bottom of the container.
- Beetroot Placement: Arrange the beetroot so they are not touching each other. Ensure there is a small gap between each beet.
- Covering: Cover the beetroot with another layer of moist sand.
- Repeating: Continue layering beetroot and sand until the container is almost full, finishing with a layer of sand.
4. Storage Conditions:
- Location: Store the container in a cool, dark, and frost-free location. Ideal places include a root cellar, unheated garage, or shed. The temperature should ideally be between 32°F and 40°F (0°C and 4°C).
- Humidity: Maintain a relatively high humidity level to prevent the beetroot from drying out.
- Monitoring: Check the beetroot periodically for signs of rot or spoilage. Remove any affected beets immediately to prevent the spread of decay. The sand may need occasional moistening.
Why Sand Works:
The sand provides a stable environment, protecting the beetroot from temperature fluctuations and preventing them from drying out too quickly. The slight moisture in the sand helps to maintain humidity, preventing shriveling.
