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Root Crop Storage
Storage pits for root crops14 may be made in many ways. When placed on
level ground always raise the level of the pit a few inches above
the surrounding ground by throwing the earth dug from a trench
around the area to be occupied by the roots to be stored. This will
assure good drainage. On this raised earth place a 6" or 8" layer
of straw or dry fallen leaves.
Next, make a conical pile of roots-potatoes, turnips, beets, carrots,
etc.-and cover it with a 4" to 6" layer of straw and then a 2" layer
of soil. But at the apex leave an opening partly filled with straw
for ventilation until cold weather sets in when a second earth
layer will be necessary to add. In a cold climate this layer may
have to be 5" or 6" thick; in a mild one, less.
Keep the ventilator covered with an A-shaped board trough or something
similar to prevent the en- trance of rain but not to check the egress
of warm, moist air from inside. Finally, cover the earth with
manure or litter 6" or 8" thick, and completely plug the ventilator.
Avoid making the pile larger than can be used at one time because
it is almost impossible to close a pit satisfactorily .after the
ground has once been frozen.
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