Tips on Building a Root Cellar to Store Food All Winter - A Homesteader's Guide

In this week’s episode, we’re diving into the practical, historical, and rewarding art of building a root cellar for long-term food storage. After sharing how we stored up our winter provisions last week, many of you asked, "But how do you build a root cellar?" Today, we'll cover the basics of our construction process and look at alternative methods you can use, whether building inside or outside your home.
We'll start with a brief history of root cellars dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, explaining why these structures became essential for survival in cold climates. Then, we’ll get hands-on and take you through a step-by-step guide to constructing a root cellar, highlighting the four critical elements for storing food effectively: insulation, humidity control, ventilation, and darkness.
We’ll also show you our unique setup, which includes some modern tweaks like insulation and ABS plastic vents for improved airflow, keeping the environment stable year-round. From our cedar-log structure to the ventilation system that keeps the air circulating, each detail is designed to maximize food preservation.
Finally, we’ll talk about some practical storage tips for fruits and vegetables, including how to layer produce without touching and the importance of “hardening off” potatoes before storage. Whether you’re interested in food security, self-sufficiency, or connecting with your food on a deeper level, this episode has something for everyone. Stick around to see how easy it can be to build your own root cellar - from a full structure to an inventive DIY option - and discover why we believe it’s one of the most valuable additions to any homestead.
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📺 Featuring: Peter Kelly
🎥 Cinematography, Production & Editing: Catherine Wolfe
🎵 Music Courtesy Of: Richard Fortier and Al MacDonald
Mandolin instrumentals: Michael Righi
Violin music: Meghan Balogh
Book resource: "Root Cellaring - Natural Cold Storage of Fruits and Vegetables" by Mike and Nancy Bubel
Thumbnail and description: Shane Kelly
📬 Contact Us: [e-mail]
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#RootCellar #FoodStorage #WinterPrep #Homesteading #SelfSufficiency #DIYRootCellar #FoodPreservation #OffGridLiving #SustainableLiving #ColdStorage #GardenToTable #18thCenturyLiving #FoodSecurity #BackyardGardening #TheWoodlandEscape

[@MoePoe777]

My father built a house in the 1940's in Wisconsin complete with a victory garden. There was a root cellar off of the basement next to the coal bin. I recall the vents and the bushel baskets full of root vegetables and fruit. It stayed quite cool year round as there was air circulating. I miss those days!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Sounds like your father was a skilled homesteader, and I imagine the root cellar helped keep everyone well fed.

[@christinapriest5537]

I wish i had seen it

[@thomastevelde8547]

❤

[@randybrown140]

I'm the first generation in my family that doesn't have to live off the garden and root cellar. But I have both anyway and glad I do

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I think you made the right choice.

[@terihomer5316]

When I was growing up, the kitchen garden was alongside the house. During the fall, we canned everything . Grandma had a root cellar she used. During ww2, this was a "victory garden. The idea is so sound and efficient for a family or someone who's isolated on an off-grid site. Thank you again for your videos.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

The best return on investment a person can make, in my humble opinion. Even if one buys from the growers the savings are significant and the food far better.

[@billshepherd5090]

Mom was telling me about her grandpa in the mountains of VA. They were using holes in the ground that were dug decades ago to keep produce. Like you say, her grandparents would put a layer of sawdust down first then produce, more sawdust until the hole was filled. To keep it somewhat organized certain holes only kept certain produce. She remembers going out to get a head of cabbage, removing the straw and dig around to find a head of cabbage. Then put the straw back on top.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We should never rule out our grandparents… they were very resourceful! Thanks for sharing your story.

[@lancehenderson7249]

Great job on the root cellar, remember we had one in the basement of our house. Dad made shelves for moms preserves, and there were bins that held potatoes and carrots. Remember we rinsed out tang cartons and put corn on the cob in them with water, then stuck those in the freezer. Great memories. Keep your powder dry and take care

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It is a wonderful feeling to have a root cellar full of homegrown food. The tang cartons, we’ll stir, that’s a new one for me. Watch yer top knot.

[@kevinthorrington2131]

My grandparents had a root cellar under their house. It was a wonderful place to play as a little kid. I remember the big potato bins with the dirt in them.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Funny what we remember… I remember my mom always asking us to fetch something from the cellar.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

I love it !!! It’s better to have way more food than you need than not have enough 😊 and it’s great to be able to bless others with what you grow ❤

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Amen to that! Always be prepared and good to share!

[@marieleopold1625]

And now a 'moose' for your larder! Happy for you Emperor Peter and Empress Catherine, as the fort will surely beckon more and more of 'your time travelers' for visits, sharings and the like. Yes, I can see a very busy time ahead for both of you. I truly believe you have had 'inspiration' assist you in the 'timing' of your fort build, it's simply amazing! There's quite a bit to know about 'root cellars' or else your veggies will rebel and leave you with 'revolting' sustenance = YIKES! Your quick final word of advice for all to build their own root cellar, are words which bear 'much weight' in these times.I thank you Proff Peter for the 'wee bits', and dear camerawoman\ artist Catherine, and the work behind these videos. Health an' blessings dear ones! "The saddest thing I can imagine is to get used to luxury." (Charlie Chaplin). The 'stuff' (luxury) you run away from! TRUE wisdom! :)

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

The simply root cellar can actually be the quickest return on investment one can make. As to that there luxury business, it often seems to me that people gave grown to expect it… get a job that requires the least amount of work with the most free time available.

[@marieleopold1625]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Which is precisely 'why' we are all getting sick (lack of work) and feel unfulfilled...like walking 'empty larders'...perpetuallly looking for what will fulfill us, in 'all the wrong places'. Hence the attraction to you 'time traveler types'. "Why are 'these peiople' soOOOoo happy?" Yes, as I've said before....No Christmas gift 'gymn membership' for either you or beloved Catherine! :) You simply 'get life'!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ My pet peeve saying that I hear often is, “killing time”!

[@davidmcpherson9260]

Another great, funny and informative show. Thank you Peter and Kathy

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@petehendry4756]

My great grandparents bought an 1820's farm house in 1910 , it was in the family for 4 generations, i spent meny happy hours there growing up , my brother almost burned it down playing with matches lol . The root cellar was fascinating to me as a child , the door had a brick arch with tight joints indicative of old fashioned lyme mortar , the door itself was painted pale green , it was pretty big i think , maybe 6x10 . They had the same bushel baskets and it was lined with shelves . I remember the sweet pungent smell and the cool damp air . These days im really thankful for the time I spent there . We always referred to it as " The Farm " ie " Dad were gonna ride our bikes down to the farm "

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That's a great memory, it is special to be able to hold on to places like that.

[@loupuleff571]

You have all the ingredients for some great soups that coupled with some deer meat my mouth is watering just thinking about it !!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I can't wait to start making some hearty soups from the root cellar.

[@regulatorscout6288]

Thanks for all you do Peter. Another great mentoring video.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You’re very welcome. I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned over the years.

[@fastrivers812]

It surprises me to hear that the humidity needs to be so high. Great information, thank you.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It's a bit counterintuitive, but it's important to create an environment that mimics a natural underground space.

[@ianandresen2326]

Well you answered alot of my questions! The humidity requirements is interesting! That is something I never thought of! God video!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It is an important factor for a successful root cellar.

[@S.Mos72]

Congratulations on the Moose ❤

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you.

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

My family heritage is from New England since 1603, both my matriarchal great grandmothers (CT and MA) had the same homes from their mothers and may be grandmothers. Both had sort of dug outs in the ground that were encased with large smooth stones. They also had regular cellars under their houses that had dirt floors and stoned walls. That is where they kept all their canned fruits and veggies, root veggies (as above in your video), and dried meats. Lots of deer and rabbit hunting up there (I dont know about these days). I so miss my beautiful New England! Would love to move back if they did not ruin it in the 1960s! I loved your video. My parents moved to the south when we were kids because the New England government was not giving US Veterans home loans. It was awful. BLESSINGS.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I’m envious that you can trace your heritage that far back. Our ancestors sure need what it was like to survive and to do it well! Thanks for your kind words.

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

@@TheWoodlandEscape My grandmother started research in the 1940s and my mother carried on when she was in her 30s. I should carry the torch as well now that I lost both of them. BLESSINGS to you.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ And to you sir. Future family generations will thank you!

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Thank you but I am a girl. The pink rose did not give it away? LOL No worries. Men cannot join the DAR. Just FYI. LOL Have a lovely day.

[@Blrtech77]

Peter & Cathy, As always a great video with a lot of important information about root cellaring and sustaining your own food. A heartfelt thanks, keep up the great work, and be safe! P.S. Awesome moose harvest and good luck deer hunting!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are very kind, I appreciate the well wishes!

[@bradlafferty]

Thank you for explaining about your root cellar. It’s nicely done.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are very welcome.

[@beverlymichael5830]

I live your root cellar. I had never thought of a refrigerator or freezer buried. Dang I had to replace my deep freeze several years ago. I could have used it. Next time my fridge or fr ever needs replaced I have one or if I find one someone discards. Thanks for the idea.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Often if you go the your local landfill site, they’ll have a metal drop off. At ours there is always a few old freezers in the pile which one can take for free.

[@aaronvallejo8220]

My grandparents had a very similar root cellar in Amstrong, BC, Canada with a prune tree outside. I would shoot my arrows, I made, for hours and hours outside it in the long happy days of summer. They also had a full basement room with floor to ceiling shelves for canned tomatoes, string beans, salmon with all varieties of local fruit and jams, bulk flours and sugars with a full deep freeze for all the meats. Nothing better in cold February than pancakes covered in home made jam and syrup cooked on the wood stove:)

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Sounds like your grandparents were masters of preserving the fruits of their labor and sharing them with you!

[@aaronvallejo8220]

@TheWoodlandEscape They sure did...they shared the time tested strategies to thrive:)

[@YahwehsbountifulHarvest]

I love homemade pancakes 🥞 with maple syrup too

[@aaronvallejo8220]

@YahwehsbountifulHarvest I just made a big batch this morning together with sausages, fried eggs and coffee.

[@charlesmurray1220]

Ingenious! Question: You used modern piping for your ventilation system. How were they ventilated in the 18th Century? Clay pipes?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Piping of many kinds was often made from wood. Water pipe for example was always made from Tamarack wood … things like the first water pumps.

[@glennwilck5459]

Definitely on the to build list for my homestead! Thanks for sharing your experience and tips.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Enjoy the process and the savings!

[@stephengent9974]

I think the reason we did not have root cellars in the Uk was because it ws cold enough to store foods like potatoes and such , for a long time. When I was a child , back in the 1960's, our house had an external pantry that was uninsulated, with a separate compartment for storing items that might attract varmints. I know that there were sheds to dry apples, and there were icehouses ( although for the gentry) at that time. We also used to use stone lined boxes cut into the ground for storage. Otherwise we "canned" things. Europe tends to have wetter winters than the US and Canada.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That is some interesting storage methods, thanks for sharing.

[@jeffersonspace]

Interesting, and inspiring video - thanks. You guys are cultivating a great channel.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks! We're just trying to share what we've learned over the years.

[@tropifiori]

Thanks Peter, I have been thinking about building one- great tips Frank

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad I could help, Frank.

[@rickcooper6817]

Congratulations on getting your moose! My grandmother had a root cellar and always covered her potatoes with powdered lime. I'm not really sure why, maybe you can shed some light on that for me. Have a great weekend!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I’m sure your grandmother had her reasons. She must have had good results. I don’t have a clue as to why.

[@pbonniejean]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Lime "sweetens" acidic soil.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@@pbonniejean It does indeed, but I believe they were referring to covering the stored potatoes with lime.

[@throwback336]

What a great video and such a sense of satisfaction to know you #1 grew your own food and #2 you have enough. Well done. Congrats on the moose as well!!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It is a very satisfying feeling!

[@gerardvanengelen9001]

Very interesting and through sustainability very contemporary

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you.

[@garyrichardt1496]

Our root cellar on the farm was also where we went during storms or tornado warnings all our produce and canning was on shelves from the floor to the ceiling.Thanks for another fine educational video.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That sounds like a very functional design!

[@harvdog5669]

Love your PERIOD CLOTHES..

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you. W3 sew most of them ourselves.

[@smoothvern165]

Very informative video! I learned a lot. That must give you a great feeling of security.👍 Also, congratulations on getting the moose!!! That is AWESOME!!!👏👏👌

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Our freezer is full of meat, that was a great moose hunt.

[@smoothvern165]

@@TheWoodlandEscape YAY!!

[@shawno3681]

Great video and root cellar! thanks for sharing!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@stime6472]

Great video! Thank you guys!!!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We appreciate you watching!

[@jeffgrier8488]

Thanks for giving us a run down on the root cellar, i would love to build one some day. Both my grandparents houses had root cellars, and a pantry, no modern houses have those today.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It’s a shame we lost them, they’re such a huge money saver and better food to boot.

[@offgridal]

Very helpful information Peter, I may try my hand at building a small root cellar into the side of the hill at my place. I was going to build one in the cabin, but I like this idea better. Happy Hollidays to you and yours.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You’ll not regret building one and the money savings is great as well as have wholesome food on hand.

[@outsidestuff4867]

Very nice! Our root cellar here in France is about 2 meters underground under our house. It almost never changes temp. All year long. Dirt floor.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That is a great cellar!

[@elizabethreneeprima]

Just love it thank you! I think it would be awesome to have one. I also want a bigger garden. One day, and you make it seem so simple to build I think my husband and I could do it. Thanks for another great video!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It is not as hard as it looks.

[@jackcook8613]

Very informative and interesting, Peter. You have a good stock pile for the winter Congrats on the Moose kill. Good luck deer hunting.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks! We're getting ready for the long winter ahead.

[@Dan_TheMedievalGuild]

Very informative and awesome video. Thank you for that knowledge good sir.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad to share, it’s a very satisfying project.

[@williamqueen8790]

Another great video, I have never got the concept of the root cellar to be honest.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

They’re quite simple and can be very effective.

[@timyates807]

thanks for the great tips , i really enjoyed the video. take care

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you found it useful.

[@angosadic5520]

Great video very informative thank you

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you found it helpful.

[@williamwertman24]

I'm in central pennsylvania and just built mine this spring in my greenhouse. Small hand dug 64x60x 68 deep but fits plenty of produce from my large garden. so far is keeping a constant temp of mid 50s. I'm expecting when the ground freezes it will be 40 degrees until may. 3-400# of potatoes harvested, 5 bushels of apples and 4 bushel crates with winter squash in the cellar right now. I built mine with low tech back ups and a high tech on off that I can watch the humidity and temp from my phone so I can turn on an intake and a circulation fan to move my air around when it's cool or to move out the ethylene gas.

[@pbonniejean]

You might want to remove the apples and squash to a separate place, such as an unheated but draft-free attic. They emit methane gas which will cause root veg to sprout and then rot.

[@williamwertman24]

@pbonniejean apples emit ethylene gas. I have enough of a draft flowing thru that they will be good. Have been in there for almost 1.5 months now with no change from day 1. Good storing varieties are key tho. Good storers normally have thicker skin so they loose less over time. Air flow is key too. I've helped with the farm over the years with apples in our big cooler for 36bu bins of apples and had pumpkins and other assorted veggies with them. Heavy concentration of the gas causes them to ripen. Small amounts being moved outside keeps it at minimum. I'm also trying sawdust in there and charcoal. Both help with removing the earthy taste and the gasses. There are old journal entries of keeping sawdust on floors to help remove smells from the fruit and to slow the growing of the root veg

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That sounds like a great setup and a lot of food.

[@williamwertman24]

@MichaelCarter we did too

[@wadeschwartz6281]

Outstanding semi 18 th century seminar , thank you for the transparency on the modern applications , now we know you are not a time traveler 😂

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It is important to embrace what works best.

[@christinatom9146]

Such a great root cellar! So educational!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We hope you find it useful!

[@Offgridlee444]

Hi, new subscriber here! I have a pantry, I would love to have a root cellar! Great job!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks for subscribing and welcome! You're going to love all the benefits a root cellar brings to the table.

[@justiceleague1146]

Great information! My family had a cellar when we lived in the hills of Kentucky!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you, glad you found it useful.

[@randygraf2474]

will you be doing video on 18 century thanksgiving? thank you and God bless.

[@elmoelmo242]

thats a good idea

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We live in Canada and our thanksgiving is over, lol. It is a good idea for an episode.

[@Redhackle]

Great video. Thank you.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are most welcome.

[@boscodog4358]

The hardening off is more important than we know.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Indeed … adds months to good storage.

[@boscodog4358]

@@TheWoodlandEscape after the tobacco crop was in the barn we would dig the potatoes and lay them on the wagon bed until almost Frost and then put them in the cellar Work good.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ They would be hardened off quite well with your method.

[@greggdougherty8992]

I seen that a cold cellar is 10 foot under ground with a four wide staircase leading up to the basement. The staircase acts like a chimney to keep the room under 50F. There was only two known fortress castles in history that had them. I believe they stored dried goods and probably barreled stores. "Clean and dry" which is the standard for such things.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Interesting, thanks for sharing.

[@ashleyanderson2859]

Appreciate your efforts and dedication! Very informative. Great book reference. You mentioned storing apples, I assumed you meant outside of cellar, and if so, where and how? Thanks again, and keep your powder dry!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Essentially in a separate cellar. Watch yer top knot.

[@twentypdrparrott694]

If you have a hill on your property digging a root cellar on the northside of the hill will keep the cellar cooler, plus it keeps the soor in the shade .

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Absolutely the best orientation.

[@richardofsylmar]

Enjoyed the knowledge of making a root cellar, I may not have the area that I am able to make one, but someday I may. Thank you.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It’s a great project if you ever have the opportunity.

[@57WillysCJ]

Yours is nicely made. There are many ways to do this. Native Americans did it long ago. You can still find their granaries. I have seen as simple as a 5 gallon bucket with the bottom cut out and then sand for layering. The same with a metal 55 gallon barrel or an old garbage can. It is better to put a heavier insulated lid on these and you have to dig the hole. In high shool in the 1970s I helped a family dig down the side of an old concrete cistern and break a doorway in the side. I wasn't around when they vented it but it pretty much standard the way you did it. My family used an unheated section of the basement which never froze but was not warm. In The Tales From the Green Valley they used the roof loft.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

There is no end to the methods people use for storing food in the winter!

[@karlrobson3120]

The carrots we had were delicious 😊

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Happy to feed you and thanks for the help on the fort.

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

Great content. Love the book Root Cellaring.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you very much. We find the cost saves great and the self sufficiency satisfying.

[@modee-b9s]

Excellent video - Thanks!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you liked it!

[@yohanesliong4818]

Nice video. Thank you

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You're welcome, we appreciate the view.

[@badapple65]

I was wondering because it looks like a wooden rail on the left and right outside of the front door. Is that to rest a wood barrier across in the winter so that snow doesn’t bury the front door area? Or simply keep a shovel out front? Thanks for a great channel it’s very enjoyable.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Great question, I simply wanted to do it. However in really cold environments they build a row door system to get into the cellar and avoid allowing frigid air in .

[@paulfrizzell31]

👍great video

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you liked it.

[@paulfrizzell31]

@TheWoodlandEscape 🙂

[@bushcraftbasics2036]

Thank you for making this

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You’re most welcome.

[@JayCWhiteCloud]

Very informative, however some information I would not recommend at all...and that is based on 40 plus years of only traditional and natural archtiecture design build (including dozens of root cellars over the years) as well as being raised traditionally around these and seeing "old ones" on several cotenants... Overall...this was (thank you) and excellent "wood" example of a root cellar that was more common than many today realize. These had been the "first" root cellars to go onto most homesteads prior to them having the time to build out a cob/stone proper and durable cellar. I simply will not nor do I recommend modern industrial OPC concrete ones at all... Highlight observations. 06:40 I agree that it has to be "pitch dark," but this is to stop the activation of..."root crops"...from starting to "green out"...which is not good for things like potatoes as this is also the first steps toward bringing the growth cycle. This has...nothing at all...!!!...???...to do with..."direct sunlight will speed up the bacteria breakdown, and hasten rot." That is absolutely false and inaccurate information. On the contrary direct sun contains ultraviolet (UV) rays, which kills most bacteria and viruses. UV-C rays are most effective in killing bacteria because of their higher energy and shorter wavelength. Exposure to direct sunlight can also..."inactivate"... many microorganisms, potentially reducing the viability of dust microbial communities as well as other. The germicidal effect of sunlight has been known for millenia and this is not some "assumption" or "DIYer" guessing at this. These are know historical and science based facts... 07:00 The door looks well designed from a thickness side but there is zero reason to use any modern foams which (as you know) are not authentic, nor do they perform (over time) as well as the traditional insulative materials found in such well built doors. As for the gasketing around the door...to this day...I have yet to find a "modern industrial gasket" to last nor outperform a traditional felt "draft gasket" with the oldest I've seen being over 300 years old and still functional on a door in Europe. 07:15 Dirt floors are an absolute must and again the not using concrete was excellent for all the reasons you have listed. Proper ambient humidity is a must for root cellars to function properly... 07:56 I noted, and you mention later, the use of "foams." Again this is not authentic in context...is not necessary at all...!!!...is actually illegal to use in historic restoration work around wood in many areas of the world due to interstitial moisture and decay acceleration among other reasons. If you will take not, even though a cedar structure, you have (because of the 90% humidity) created a perfect microbiome climate for both dry and wet "wood rot" fungal species to take hold which is evident (it seems) by the white surface mycelium growth visible in the video. These traditional cellar doors would have employed "U Factor" (aka the flywheel effect) over "R factor" (aka the "sweater effect") when addressing thermal insulative qualities and characteristics. Sheeps wool, straw, sawdust, moss, "flax tow" all are alternatives as well among other historical and natural materials. I would also note (and be observant for) ants as they love to nest in these industrial foam materials especially when the humidity is high... Overall, some great information in this video, and I do wish to stress that to any readers. As for the design of this one I would give it a B+ to A- failing in only some minor areas, though I did not see the build process. I like to combine my root cellars with "ice houses" in design and I like them near and/or attached to the homestead primary living architecture, particularly the further you go North...Thanks again for what you share on your channel...

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you so much for the critique and share your vast experience and knowledge.

[@JayCWhiteCloud]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Most welcome kind Sir...Love what do and share...Blessings, j

[@Jojojamjar]

apparently sifted wood ash works well instead of peat moss etc (and would never run out)

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Interesting, thanks for sharing.

[@Jojojamjar]

@@TheWoodlandEscape indeed, firstly the wood ash is sterile because of the heat when burnt. Secondly it is very alkaline that hostile to bacteria or other living microorganisms

[@marygallagher3428]

Great root cellar!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It’s a great way to keep your food fresh through the winter.

[@sukeyfrugalfrau]

We built our root cellar under a small sitting room. It is in the ground on the east side, up against the foundation on the north side ( too bad but this is where the room is ). We insulated all walls and door that are above grade. We have a 1500 gallon cistern inside to help moderate the temperatures because it can get -30F here. We have a gravel floor. Last winter was the maiden voyage n for this and we stored potatoes, carrots, and onions in there. Mmmm I have the root cellaring book in a box since we never u packed the books because of our multi year remodeling. I must dig it out, because I thought winter squash would need a warmer temperature, so this year there is also cabbage in there, turnips, I still have the parsnips in the ground. We used foam insulation too. We are plumbing the cistern up to a hand pump on a sink above and draining it to just a drain system that goes outside via a piping system, drawing water away from the house. I think we could simplify the potatoes, because I have them in heavy wooden boxes but with leaves and straw around them.. we put our carrots in damp leaves ( learned that from Will Bonsall’s permaculture book ). But yes, we are giving away pounds of potatoes because we had 4-500 pounds of them for just the two of us. I am really careful about curing them for two weeks minimum in the barns attic then when I pack them I can clearly cull those that are damaged for immediate use. Probably going to have add some venting for the airflow. We do not have fruit in there or the squash… food security is a concern and not only that real food, I know how it was grown, and it is free of chemicals. Yup…grew up growing my own food. So a holy to have a huge garden that more than supports us.

[@sukeyfrugalfrau]

Yes about the parsnips and carrots… heavy mulch. But I leave some parsnips in the ground because they just sweeter and better over the winter. No way those get dug in the winter. Building a root cellar in the ground on our property would require dynamite. Very rocky, lots of ledge, granite, slate ….

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It’s wonderful to hear of your success and the great use you’ve put your root cellar to. We never store squash, onions or garlic in the cellar due to the high humidity. They are stored on the floor in the basement.

[@sukeyfrugalfrau]

@ my onions are fine in the root cellar. I have them hanging on hooks in mesh bags I crocheted. The garlic is under the cellar steps in the house where the heat exchanger water heater pumps out cold dry air. I keep much of my dried food there too in buckets with gamma seal lids ( screws on lids ). The dried food includes carrots, potatoes, winter squash, apples, pears, dried cherry plums, and dried beans. I pressure can the beans on a regular schedule so that I am always canning the oldest. Initially I keep them dry to save space. I’m soak and ferment my means for 48 hours before canning. In all we are producing much more than two people can eat. We share with people in need because abuse living on a meager incomes ourselves, this is how we can contribute. E

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ My hats off to you guys in your generosity. You must have a different variety of onions, ours rot very quickly in the cellar.

[@sukeyfrugalfrau]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Stuttgart Onions

[@sadie21962]

Oh i want one of these. I need to talk with my amish neighbor to help me build it.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You’ll not regret it!

[@terrynoraturner1848]

This year our root cellar is finally in use. 8X40 it needs checking everyday and our ancestors did not eat what they wanted, they ate what looked like it will be going bad next. The wife and I think it our most important piece of equipment. All our ferments are in their and we planted many things later than normal just to get a fall harvest.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You are wise to check daily. We used to check weekly and lost some produce.

[@oldschoolwithamoderntwist6074]

,,Great video ,,thanks so much for sharing,,,

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@elund408]

Make it to fit your needs, its a storm cellar if you need one, its a place to store wine and cider, (if you so imbibe) . I wonder what the effect positive or negative of the acidity of the peat moss has on the bacteria growth on the vegetables?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

All I know is the peat moss works well.

[@dougtheslug6435]

Great root cellar. I too have that book and used their knowledge before I built mine up here in Bancroft 4 years ago now, still dialing in the air flow but I'm hoping this year proves to be perfect. Mine's in the basement of my old farmhouse and I tried peat moss the first 2 years and have now switched to damp sand which worked out great last year. How do you stop your veg from drying out in peat, mine would always shriveled up as the winter progressed, I still ate it but did notice it shrinking in size and hardening up.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Can’t say why we’ve been successful with peat moss, perhaps because I keep the humidity at 95%.

[@dougtheslug6435]

@@TheWoodlandEscape That must be it, I struggle to keep mine between 60 to 70% but have seen it dip as low as 50% a couple times when I wasn't paying attention, I even insulated the sand and gravel floor from the concrete floor with 4 inch foam under the walls. Thanks I'm gonna try placing a humidifier in there to raise it even more.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ Our last cabin had a root cellar in the basement. I let a 3’ square form in the middle of the room, poured the cement floor and filled the space with gravel. About once a week I’d pour 5 gallons of water on the gravel.

[@bernadetteevans2]

Nice cellar

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thank you.

[@jacobtb1]

awesome

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks for your interest.

[@grounded7362]

This year I harvested my potatoes and brought them in to harden off and most of them went soft. I was not able to harden them outside this year as I had freezing temps set in after harvesting and just couldn't safely leave them on the racks in my outdoor shelter without risking losing them to freezing but lost them anyway. 😢

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Well that is a darn shame. We harden ours off on the shop floor on news paper over the cement floor. I put black plastic over the windows to block out any light.

[@doityourselflivinggardenin7986]

I bring mine into the garage and put black plastic over the windows. I leave them until they are dry and then store them in a section of my basement that is partitioned off and has a vent pipe to outside. Works okay. It could be cooler and more humid, but I get by. The potatoes last all winter for eating and I have my seed potatoes for when I need to green them for planting. I do need to rub off the shoots once or twice for the eating potatoes and trim the shoots on the seed potatoes. This makes them last longer.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ We did the same on the farm when I was but a wee one, worked just fine.

[@117foxchase]

Could you use coconut coir instead of peat moss?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Interesting, I don’t see why not.

[@Caryldee53]

Do you mostly eat just the meat and veggies during the winter? A basic rustic diet?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We do try and not buy much . We do have lots of dried herbs, onions and garlic to add a bit of zest to the diet.

[@rogerclyde2720]

Wouldn't work well here. Humidity in the 20's, would need a constant flow of water, perhaps flowing under the floor boards or an artificial source of humidity. Very educational, thank you Peter and Cathy.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You would need to come up with a system for adding humidity for sure.

[@undersky1]

Love your consistently high level of detail - so much to learn from you and your channel. Thank you very much! How can I send you a direct message, please, not pertaining to a particular video?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

You can email us at … [e-mail]

[@sandraburke1258]

You touched base on SEED Potatoes but what about other seeds of beets/cabbage/parsnips etc.?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Good question. We should do an entire episode of seed propagation.

[@elmoelmo242]

show us how to make a 18th centeury thanksgiving

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That’s a great idea. We may have to film it sometime.

[@BethBathalon]

How would you store winter squash?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Cool and dry. A basement floor works … we simply spread newspaper and lay them out so they don’t touch. They will rot in a root cellar.

[@jk7263]

Do you also put your canned goods in your cellar. My mom used cold storage room with shelves

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We don’t. We have shelving units in the basement for canned goods.

[@ryanstottlemyer5698]

As always, a very interesting video, what caliber did you use to bring your moose down?. the wife and I are Ip in a colonial high tea at the General Adam STEPHEN house in Martinsburg, West Virginia

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I used my .338 Winchester Magnum. I should have taken my flintlock. I called him into about 25 yards!

[@ryanstottlemyer5698]

@ isn’t that good, that’s funny that’s my favorite caliber. I have a 338 win mag

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ Pretty darn hard to beat in my opinion. More energy at 500 yards than a 30-30 has the muzzle … gets the job done.

[@Vikingwerk]

What is your extreme low temperature in your area? We get sustained -30° F to -40° at times in my part of the world, so I’m trying to figure out how deep I need to bury mine when I build. I’m in a flat, so I’ll be digging down and mounding over.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We think in Celsius, but in F around -10 to -15.

[@Vikingwerk]

@ It always amazes me when I learn of places farther north than myself that have milder winters! I must have some magical combination of Latitude, Longitude, and Altitude! Of course, living on the edge of the Great Plains, there is not much to block the wind between us and the north pole besides a couple barbed wire fences!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ Heck, you’re just lucky I reckon!

[@dollyandsandy]

I was curious about that, too. In my part of Alaska, I'd guess we stay above -11F for most of the winter, but sometimes get a system in that drops it toward -30F. I just assumed it wasn't possible to have a disconnected root cellar. We have a dirt crawl space and I would love to take advantage of that somehow, but it's lined with thick insulation from an energy audit long ago. So I don't really feel comfortable cutting through it. My carrots are still doing okay in the fridge right now, thankfully. I grew a lot of them this summer. 🤤🤤🤤

[@Walt-z4u]

coco fiber is a sustainable peat alternative

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Thanks for sharing… good to know.

[@Walt-z4u]

@@TheWoodlandEscape you're welcome, good video

[@YahwehsbountifulHarvest]

Coco noir is also good for starting veggie plants

[@Walt-z4u]

@@YahwehsbountifulHarvest it has no nutrition but it has optimal moisture retention

[@tadeuszjaremko2652]

❤

[@birdman1325]

No need to put some wire mesh on the floor to prevent tunneling animals?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We did not have that issue, but I can see where that would be a concern.

[@HiddenBlessingsHomestead]

How do you keep from having mold issues? Do you have to do anything to the peat moss? like dampen it?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

The is mold once it warts to warm in the spring, but by then we’ve consumed most of the root crops.

[@GrandmaKarenHasAFarm]

How do you keep mice out with the dirt floor?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

It has not been a problem, it’s built pretty tight.

[@sandraburke1258]

Baking Soda mixed into corn muffin mix will kill your mice without using harsh poisons, mice can't fart, they have no way of removing gas from their system. This gas stays in their body and kills them, baking soda also keeps the mice from smelling like a dead mouse. It works, it's safe for animals (except mice) and children. I use a 1 part baking soda 3 part corn muffin mix or corn meal. I use an old container like a cool whip bowl cut a small whole the size of a 50 cent piece close to the bottom of the bowl (not actually the bowls bottom) cut the side area. With my grandchildren running around everywhere, the dogs the kitty's I needed to find something safe, and I don't have to worry about a smelly poison being absorbed into my stored foods. Cedar wood is also a good deterrent for critters, even spiders/beetles don't like it.

[@HaveFaithInGod-m4m]

@@sandraburke1258very helpful thanks!

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ Fascinating, thanks for sharing.

[@landonoletymer]

Little off topic bumped into1 of your segments where you built a kit gun for a friend it was a left handed shooters kit Would you be able to to give me the brand name , I’ve been looking for awhile.No success.Tried Kibler they said no.Sure be appreciated. My plan is to use it for Turkey hunting

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Try Pecatonica

[@d.pierce.6820]

Are mice a problem-can they get in?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

So far they’ve not gotten in.

[@bonniehyden962]

Have cats taking care of the rodent issue overall, and there won't be any rodents to get into a cellar. I haven't seen a rodent in 2.5 years. Haven't seen a snake in almost a year. I have 5 Grade A Mousers who hunt my 30 acres.

[@lindaregan4770]

What size is that? What was roof made of?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Just under 6’square on the inside. I used 3/4” plywood resting on 4x4” spruce. Cover it the material they use on flat gravel roofs and used torch to shrink and seal.

[@lindaregan4770]

@TheWoodlandEscape thank you

[@hayward434]

My Grandparents used the rock walled up basement of their house as their root cellar.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That is similar to the one on the farm I grew up on.

[@jtsterry]

❤😊😊

[@randallross7683]

When I was a kid we would layer our potatoes with lime and put them in a dark basement

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I’ve heard that from others, what did the lime do?

[@randallross7683]

@TheWoodlandEscape I don't know that's what my grandparents just always did

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ Oh my, Randall, you’ve shattered my faith in you. And here along I’ve been telling people that my friend Randall knows everything, lol. Just messing with you. Are you going to Pricketts this year? Yours truly will be presenting.

[@randallross7683]

@TheWoodlandEscape I'll try

[@Deveak]

What grow zone are you in? I’m a 6A. Just curious how the temps in my area would compare for something like this.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

We are in 5A, close to 4B.

[@Deveak]

@ have you ever recorded your spring and summer time temps in the root cellar?

[@birdman1325]

@@TheWoodlandEscape Wow. I'm in central Vermont. Same hardiness zone. I'd have thought everything froze.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ spring is fine, but it gets too warm in the summer due to soil depth over it.

[@charlenequinilty7252]

Too bad we don’t have root cellars in south Louisiana. Water table is to high.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That is unfortunate, it sure can lower one’s food bill.

[@anntrope491]

Potatoes are a Native ,(south), American…Peru… not Irish origin…Native Americans feed the world…corn, beans, squash, potatoes, tomatoes… etc… reminder from an Abenaki, 1630’s Welsh,& Scot/Irish from the Canadian Maritimes. My Welsh ancestors fought in the French,& Indian war, the Revolutionary War, the Civil War for Vt. Roger’s Rangers,& Vt. Regulars. My Abenaki ancestors fought in the Indian,& Indian wars …lol! We’re still fighting in the modern wars in Kosovo, Afghanistan,& Iraq…& most all the wars between these eras. I also lived for a time in my childhood… in proximity to the Minuteman statue. One ancestor, Benjamin Waite was a Brigadier General for the Vt. Regulars. He fought in over 40 battles… in the French,& Indian,& Revolutionary Wars. He was going to retire, but was given this honor to keep him in service. His brother Joseph Waite was also a war hero,& saved some of his brothers in arms, by shooting a deer,& leaving half of it in a tree for another group following his group in a return from battle in the winter. This saved these two groups from starvation. Although proud of my family history… there is conflict… knowing some of my European ancestors were in conflict with my Indigenous ancestors…,& did inflict a devastating attack on the St. Francis band of Abenaki. Thank you for the tutorial on root cellars. & I am curious about your location,& where you reenact Revolutionary history ?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

I can see why your family history has so many threads, it’s amazing! We are in the north east and do reenactments as we can.

[@doityourselflivinggardenin7986]

I understand. I am mostly Irish and 1/8 Haudenosaunee. I hunt with bow and rifle. I'm also a homesteader. Talk about conflicting. As a kid I was always in the woods, pretending to be a native American brave. I have no religion; I am spireluminal. When I create my own potatoes, corn, bean, and squash varieties I put my mindset back to my native American ancestors. I also have created my own peppers. One thing that bugs me is when native Americans have celebrations and dance in bright colored beaded garments. Folks, the Europeans gave them useless beads for their land and hard goods. I find it hard to celebrate with beads. Native Americans dressed in animal skins and woven plant fibers. I am not too far from my ancestral grounds and hope to move there within the next two years. That area draws me like a magnet.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

@ I can sense your passion sir!

[@mrsnow61]

How do you keep rodents from getting in through vent tubes?

[@shawno3681]

Some mesh panels at the end?

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

Wire mesh.

[@boscodog4358]

Grand Dad. Door had sawdust in it.

[@TheWoodlandEscape]

That would certainly work for insulation.