How to preserve cabbage for the whole winter: the best ways
Ensuring the freshness and quality of cabbage during the winter months is essential to having a stable supply until spring. However, improper storage can lead to loss of vitamins, weakening of the texture, and deterioration of the taste. UAportal has prepared an article that will help keep cabbage fresh throughout the winter.
Choosing the right varieties
For optimal winter storage, it is recommended to choose mid-season and late-season cabbage varieties with a growing season of 90-100 days or longer. Early-ripening varieties are not suitable for long-term storage as they can be stored for only 2-3 months after harvest. Ideal varieties for winter storage and canning are ymovka, Zolotiy hectar 1422, Nadiia, Podarunok, and Kharkiv winter.
Use of boxes with holes
Wooden boxes with holes in them are great for storing cabbage. Before putting the cabbage in the boxes, remove any damaged leaves and trim the heads of the cabbage. Ensure good air circulation by placing the boxes on stands, preferably with holes, and not covering them.
Creating a cabbage pyramid
Make a wooden platform about 7-10 centimeters high in the cellar. Start by placing the largest and highest quality heads of cabbage on it, and then add smaller ones in a checkerboard pattern. This method promotes air circulation and provides easy access to the top cobs.
Read also: How to determine the maturity of cabbage: the main criteria and the right time to harvest
Using a sandy bedding
Preserve the cabbage by stacking it in boxes filled with sand or by pouring a thick layer of sand on the cellar floor. Spread the cabbage on top of the sand so that it does not touch each other. The sand provides insulation and helps maintain a suitable storage environment.
Using a paper wrapper
Wrap each head of cabbage in several layers of soft paper, such as newsprint. This technique separates the heads of cabbage, providing additional insulation. Place the wrapped heads of cabbage in a bag and store them in the basement or cellar for preservation.
Hanging cabbage
Another effective method is to hang the cabbage on a rope from the ceiling. This ensures proper air circulation, keeping the cabbage fresh and crisp.
Earlier, we shared when to plant cabbage in the ground.
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