Preserving claws, bulbils and other tubers before planting

Storing asparagus crowns If the ground is too frozen or too wet and it is necessary to postpone planting, it is possible to store the crowns in a container in a little damp sand and away from light (basement, cellar, etc.). As soon as the weather conditions are right and depending on the region, it is best to plant them as soon as possible upon receipt. Unsprouted tubers (potatoes): Unsprouted plants require preparation before planting. The tubers must be stored in a dry, light-filled shelf in a ventilated area. They must be left to germinate for 4 to 5 weeks between 5 and 7°C. It is also necessary to avoid excessive temperature differences. If storage is to be longer, it is advisable to place them in a dry place at a low temperature (2 to 4°C, frost-free) to maintain the dormant state. The plants should not be kept in the dark; on the contrary, it is preferable to germinate them in a well-lit place in order to obtain short, stocky sprouts. Storing bulbils (garlic, onions, shallots) In order to maintain optimal quality, they must be stored in a dry, ventilated but unheated environment, protected from frost (where the temperature does not fall below zero), such as a cellar, storeroom or garage. The place must be as dark as possible to prevent the bulbils from germinating. It is advisable to spread the bulbs in a tray but be careful of rodents who are very fond of them. In these conditions, it is possible to store them for several weeks before planting. Preserving Jerusalem artichokes, crosnes, tuberous wisteria, helianthis and ground pears Jerusalem artichokes and crosnes do not fear frost and can therefore be planted even in periods of extreme cold. Helianthi can be planted quite early (February) in the less cold regions (south and coast) and later in mountainous regions (April). However, if conservation before planting must take place, it is possible to keep them in a container in a little damp sand and away from light (basement, cellar, etc.). Ground pears and tuberous wisteria, on the other hand, are very sensitive to the cold and should not be planted in periods of cold. However, the storage conditions are identical to Jerusalem artichoke: in a container in a little damp sand and away from light (basement, cellar, etc.). Storing oca, chayote, and tuberous nasturtium These are exotic plants that require planting in a pot in a warm interior from receipt until planting, at the end of the frosts.