Fall brings changes to many plants, not the least of which are the vegetables you have been patiently growing in your garden. Proper harvesting and storage will ensure you fully enjoy your produce in the coming winter. Below is a closer look at a few of the techniques for getting more from your harvest.

1. Canning

If you wish to preserve tomatoes for winter, you should can them. This process is complex, as you must prepare tomatoes using a pressure canner. Start by coring and skinning the tomatoes. Next, boil them at a pressure of 11 pounds, or 240 degrees Fahrenheit, to kill off botulism spores. If you wish to create a puree, you must also remove seeds and crush the inner pulp before stewing and canning the tomatoes.

2. Pickling

Cucumbers are one of several plants that you can pickle. Slice and can cucumbers using either a pressure canner or water bath canner. However, you must also add vinegar to turn them into pickles. Adding spices will give you spicy or savory varieties. Sprinkling canning salt over the cucumbers and keeping them in the refrigerator before canning will result in crunchier pickles.

3. Storing

For some plants, to ensure proper winter storage, you should cure them. For example, after digging up potatoes, lay them out in a cool, dark, ventilated area. This process toughens the skin over about two weeks. After this, keep them in ventilated baskets at temperatures between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Similarly, you should give garlic and onions time to dry after harvesting. Once dry, keep them in a cool, dark place.

Whether you need fresh plants or other greenhouse supplies, you’ll find what you’re looking for at P & M Garden Services. Serving Eagle River, AK, for over 42 years, this garden center has become a local favorite thanks to its competitive pricing and expert staff. To learn more about what they have to offer, visit them online or call (907) 964-9293.