Chard- Remove any bands, twist ties, etc. Most greens must be kept in an air‐tight container with a damp cloth to keep them from drying out. Kale, collard greens, and chard do well in a cup of water on the counter or fridge. Keeps 2-3 days
*Eggplant- Does fine left out in a cool room. Don't wash it, eggplant doesn't like any extra moisture around its leaves. For longer storage - place loose, in the crisper. Keeps 5-7 days.
*Fennel- If used within a couple days, fennel can be left out on the counter, upright in a cup or bowl of water (like celery). If wanting to keep longer than a few days, place in the fridge in a closed container with a little water.
*Onion- Store in a cool dry place out of the light. Lasts 2-3 months.
Cayenne Peppers *Spicy*- Hang on a string through the green tips to dry them in a well ventilated room. Can last a few months.
*Lunchbox Peppers- Only wash them right before you plan on eating them as moisture decreases storage time. Store in a cool room to use in a couple of days, place in the crisper if longer storage is needed. Lasts up to one week.
*Plums- Plums should be stored at room temperature until ripe. After ripe, refrigerate as necessary to prevent spoiling. Will last up to 5 days.
*Sweet Potatoes- Store in a cool, dark, well‐ventilated place. Never refrigerate ‐ sweet potatoes don't like the cold. Lasts up to 3 weeks if stored properly.
Shallot- Store in a dark, cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Lasts up to one month. If placed in the refrigerator, shallots have a shorter storage life, up to two weeks.
Summer Squash- Does fine for a few days if left out on a cool counter, even after cut. Wrap in a cloth and refrigerate for longer storage. Do not wash until ready to eat. Lasts 4-5 days.
Cherry Tomatoes- Do not refrigerate until they are fully ripe. Allow them to ripen at room temperature. This will result in more flavorful, juicy tomatoes. Once fully ripe, place in a plastic bag and refrigerate. Will keep several days once ripe.
*Heirloom Tomatoes- Depending on ripeness, tomatoes can stay for up to two weeks on the counter. To hasten ripeness, place in a paper bag with an apple.
* = Items in Box for 2