From short-term refrigeration to long-term ground storage, learn how to store carrots so that you can continue enjoying them well after the harvesting season has ended. Like most root vegetables, carrots keep well when stored correctly.
Store carrots in three ways
After you have finished growing carrots, you can eat them quickly before they turn bad, or you can store them for weeks or months ahead.
In the fridge
Carrots will store in the fridge for a few weeks if stored correctly. Simply cut off the green tops and place them inside airtight bags, along with a paper towel to absorb any moisture.
In the freezer
Carrots will last for 10-12 months in the freezer if blanched first. Simply chop or slice the carrots, immerse them in boiling water for 2 minutes, drain, quickly cool in cold water, pat dry, and store in airtight bags. If you don’t want the carrots to stick together in the freezer, lay them out in a single layer on a tray in the freezer first and then put them into bags.
In dry compost
Carrots will last for months if buried in cool, dry compost and kept in a dark place. To do this follow these steps:
- Scatter enough used, dry compost to cover the bottom of a container.
- Cut the leafy tops off the carrots leaving about 5cm intact.
- Lay some of the carrots on top of the compost so they are not touching. Cover with some more used, dry compost.
- Then lay another layer of carrots on top so they are not touching and cover with the compost.
- Continue layering until you run out of carrots or your container is full.
- Cover to keep out the sunlight and store the containers outside or in a cool, dry shed or garage.
Take the carrots out as you need them, but only store undamaged carrots using this method.
