How to Keep Your Bulbs Fresh in the Fridge

Are you someone who loves purchasing bulbs in bulk? Do you want to make sure that your bulbs stay fresh for as long as possible? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss how to keep your bulbs fresh in the fridge. With these simple tips and tricks, you’ll be able to ensure that your bulbs stay fresh and tasty for longer than ever before.

Why Keep Your Bulbs in the Fridge?

Before we begin, it’s important to understand why keeping your bulbs in the fridge is so important. When bulbs are exposed to room temperature, they begin to sprout and develop eyes. This is not only unappetizing but also detrimental to the life of the bulbs. By keeping bulbs in the fridge, you slow down the sprouting process and extend their lifespan. Plus, who doesn’t love a refreshing, crisp, and crunchy bulb straight from the fridge?

The Best Bulbs to Keep in the Fridge

It’s important to keep in mind that not all bulbs should be stored in the fridge. Some bulbs do better in warmer temperatures while others actually require a period of dormancy. Here’s a list of the bulbs that do well in the fridge:

  • Garlic
  • Leeks
  • Spring Onions
  • Shallots
  • Scallions
  • Fennel bulbs

Garlic

Garlic is one of the easiest bulbs to store in the fridge. Just remove the outer papery layer and place the cloves in a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to press out any excess air before sealing the bag. Garlic stays good in the fridge for up to three months.

Leeks, Spring Onions, Scallions, and Shallots

These bulbs should be stored similarly. Cut off the top green part and the roots at the bottom. Then, slice the bulbs into small pieces and store them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. These bulbs can last up to a month in the fridge.

Fennel Bulbs

Fennel bulbs should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will last in the fridge for up to two weeks.

How to Store Your Bulbs in the Fridge

Now that you know which bulbs to store in the fridge, here are some tips on how to store them:

Choose the Right Temperature

The ideal temperature for storing bulbs is around 0 to 3 degrees Celsius (32 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the temperature range of most refrigerators.

Keep Them Dry

Wet bulbs will spoil quickly. Before storing the bulbs, ensure that they are completely dry. If you’ve washed them, let them air dry for an hour or two before storing them in the fridge.

Avoid Crowding the Fridge

Create enough space in the fridge for the bulbs to breathe. Remember, overcrowding the fridge will compromise the temperature and moisture level, leading to premature spoilage.

Label the Bags and Containers

It’s important to label your bags or containers with the type of bulb and the date of storage. This way, you can keep track of how old the bulbs are and ensure that you use them before their expiry date.

Bulbs That Should Not Be Stored in the Fridge

As mentioned earlier, not all bulbs should be stored in the fridge. Some bulbs do well at room temperature or in a cool, dark place. Here is a list of bulbs that should not be stored in the fridge:

  • Onions
  • Chives
  • Potatoes
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Yams
  • Carrots (store in a cool, dark place instead)

FAQs

Q: How long can I store bulbs in the fridge?

A: It depends on the type of bulb. Garlic can last up to three months, while leeks, spring onions, scallions, and shallots can last up to a month. Fennel bulbs will last up to two weeks. Always ensure that you label the bags or containers with the date of storage.

Q: Should I wash the bulbs before storing them in the fridge?

A: It’s best to avoid washing the bulbs, as they will spoil quickly if wet. However, if you must wash the bulbs, ensure that they are dry before storing them in the fridge.

Q: Can I store bulbs with other vegetables in the fridge?

A: You can store bulbs with other vegetables, provided that they don’t release ethylene gas. Ethylene gas speeds up the sprouting process, leading to premature spoilage. Bulbs should be stored away from fruits such as bananas, apples, and pears, which release a lot of ethylene gas.

Q: Can I freeze bulbs?

A: You can freeze some bulbs, such as onions and shallots. However, freezing changes the texture of the bulbs, making them mushy. Freezing is not recommended for bulbs that you plan to use raw, as they will become watery and unappetizing.

Q: How do I know if my bulbs are spoiled?

A: If the bulbs are sprouting, soft, moldy, or have an unpleasant odor, then they are likely spoiled. Discard them immediately.

Conclusion

Keeping your bulbs in the fridge is an excellent way to ensure that they stay fresh and crisp for longer. Just remember to store them properly, keep them dry, and avoid overcrowding the fridge. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh and delicious bulbs for months to come.

References

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