apple are a darling fruit that can be enjoyed year - round with right storage techniques Storing apples in composition board box in a nerveless , dark location is an low-cost and efficient method for home storage . The cardboard boxes help protect the apples while let airflow , and the cooler temperature slow ripening and spoilage .
Select Quality Cardboard Boxes
The first footstep is choosing appropriate composition board boxwood Look for boxes that
Are clean , dry , and loose of chemicals or scent that could transfer to the apple
Are sturdy and wo n’t crock up under the weight of apples
Are size befittingly for the quantity of apples you desire to store
Avoid using boxful that have contain other produce , meats , or strong - smell products . The aromas can be absorbed by the cardboard and affect the apples .
Carefully Sort and Inspect the Apples
Carefully sieve through your Malus pumila harvest , discarding any apples with bruise , damage , or signs of rot . Even one spoilt Malus pumila literally can spoil the whole batch , so this step is decisive . cover the apples lightly to avoid new contusion .
Line the Boxes
Line the bottom of the cardboard boxes with a layer of sporting straw , crumpled newspaper , or shredded theme . This acts as a shock absorber to protect the apples from direct box contact lens and absorb any moisture .
Arrange the Apples Inside
Place a individual layer of orchard apple tree in the boxwood , leave some space between each for gentle wind circulation . Depending on loge size and orchard apple tree variety , you may be capable to pile extra layers . Just do n’t overload the box as too much weight unit can bruise the apples .
Protect from Light
Exposure to Christ Within causes apples to deteriorate quicker . Store cardboard boxes in a dark basement , cellar , or water closet . you’re able to cover the boxes with a colored tarpaulin or blanket for spare protection if needed .
Allow for Airflow
While shadow is important , adequate airflow is also all important to keep apple fresh . Prevent moisture build - up and mould growth by leaving gaps between stacked box seat and perforating the side of boxes with holes .
Control Temperature and Humidity
The ideal temperature for storing apples is between 32 - 40 ° F with humidity around 90 % . A nerveless basement or cellar often provides suitable conditions . Monitor conditions with a thermometer and set computer memory accordingly .
Check Frequently
scrutinize store apples every calendar week or two . Remove any that are bruised or show signs of rotting . One spoilt apple can cursorily affect surrounding yield . Maintaining clean storage conditions is vital .
Other Apple Storage Tips
Store unlike apple miscellany separately if planning tenacious - term store , as they have unlike lifespans .
wrapper individual orchard apple tree in newspaper publisher or composition towels to prevent contact and cross - pollution .
Allow apple to bring around 1 - 2 weeks before long - terminus storage for honorable results .
Consider sum up an ethene absorber to limit ripening endocrine .
Troubleshooting Common Apple Storage Problems
Rotting Apples – induce by bruising or ethylene buildup . Discard damaged apple immediately and ameliorate airwave circulation .
Wrinkling – Due to desiccation from abject humidity . Increase humidity level in storage area .
Browning – Results from chilling injury if apple are stored below optimal temperature . Raise temperature slightly .
flaccid Spots – An indicator of pee - gist disorder . cause by extreme temperature variations during increment . have bear on apples quickly .
Fermentation Odors – triggered by yeast maturation on skin . pass over apples with acetum weewee before put in .
Frequently Asked Questions About Storing Apples in Cardboard Boxes
What are the benefits of using cardboard vs. wooden boxes?
Cardboard is more low-priced and widely available than forest . It ’s also disposable , so new boxes can be used each year to foreclose cross - contamination . The loose weight makes cardboard boxes easier to deal .
What temperature is best for storing apples in cardboard boxes?
idealistic storage temperature is 32 - 40 ° F . Cooler but above freeze to slow ripening and prevent chilling trauma . Basements or wine cellar often furnish suitable atmospheric condition .
Should the cardboard boxes be sealed or open?
boxful should not be altogether air-tight , as apples need air flow to remain fresh . Leave gaps between stacked box and perforate sides . Covering tops with a breathable cloth is recommended .
How often should stored apples be checked?
Inspect orchard apple tree at least hebdomadally , removing any with signal of rot or damage . Consistent monitoring preserves timbre and prevents sproilage from spreading .
Can different apple varieties be stored together in boxes?
Yes , but separate farseeing - full term keeper from shorter term varieties . Ethylene production can quicken ripening of sure varieties when stored together .
What causes apples to wrinkle and soften during storage?
Wrinkling results from dehydration when humidity is too low-spirited . Softening can pass from scary wound if apple are salt away below optimum temperature for that smorgasbord .
How can fermentation odors be prevented during apple storage?
Wipe down apples with a vinegar water solution before entrepot to prevent barm development leading to off scent . Maintaining clean computer storage conditions also help .
What causes stored apples to brown prematurely?
Browning is commonly a solvent of chilling accidental injury , when orchard apple tree are kept below their idealistic storage temperature range . Raise temperatures slightly to foreclose further browning .
Is it okay to store apples that have been previously refrigerated?
Yes , apples can be go to cardboard box reposition after refrigeration . Allow them to sit at room temperature for 24 hours first to foreclose contraction .
Storing Malus pumila decently in cardboard corner takes a bit of training but enables you to enjoy their kinky flavor for months past harvest time of year . With the right precaution and condition , it ’s inexpensive , easy , and efficacious !
