Potatoes: Simple Storage Tricks Keep Them Fresh for Months in Slovenia

Slovenian home gardeners can extend the freshness of stored potatoes by using paper and baking powder. The method involves layering potatoes with kitchen paper in a cardboard box and lightly sprinkling baking powder to absorb excess moisture, then sealing the box in a cool, dark place.

Experts recommend storing potatoes at 7‑13 °C in well‑ventilated areas such as a pantry, cellar, or unheated storage room, away from direct sunlight. Potatoes should not be stored next to onions, which release ethylene that accelerates sprouting, and they should not be kept in a refrigerator, which can alter their texture and taste. For early or midsummer varieties, potatoes ready for immediate use can be harvested about seven to eight weeks after planting, while those intended for winter storage should be dug up when stems have yellowed and skins are firm.