Introduction

Florida’s climate presents unique challenges for storing food long-term, but with the right design, an aboveground root cellar can extend the shelf life of your produce. This guide walks you through building a DIY root cellar that stays cool and dry, even in humid Florida weather.

Materials and Tools

Before you start, gather the necessary materials and tools. You’ll need:
– 2×4 lumber for framing
– R-13 fiberglass batt insulation
– 15-pound roofing felt
– Oriented strand board (OSB)
– 1/2-inch plywood
– 1/4-inch plywood
– A wooden freezer-style door with rubber seals
– Concrete patio steps
– A small air conditioner set to 62°F
– Charcoal
– Tin plates
– Storage crates

For tools, you’ll need:
– A circular saw
– A hammer
– A drill
– A level
– A tape measure
– A screwdriver
– A utility knife

Construction Steps

  1. Frame the Structure: Start by framing the walls using 2×4 lumber. Ensure the frame is level and square. The dimensions should be 8 feet wide and 10 feet long, with a height of 7 feet. This size provides ample storage space while maintaining a manageable footprint.
  2. Insulate the Walls: Insert R-13 insulation between the studs. Use a vapor barrier like plastic sheeting to prevent moisture from entering the insulation. Apply 15-pound roofing felt over the exterior side of the insulation. On the interior side, attach OSB to the studs. This layer protects the insulation from damage.
  3. Install the Roof: Frame the roof using 2x4s and attach R-13 insulation. Cover the roof with 1/4-inch plywood. This lightweight material reduces the weight on the roof and provides a smooth surface for the final layer of roofing material.
  4. Add the Exterior Finish: Apply OSB over the exterior walls. This layer protects the insulation and provides a solid base for the final finish. On the interior walls, attach 1/2-inch plywood. This material is durable and easy to work with.
  5. Install the Door: Fit a wooden freezer-style door with rubber seals. This door should be airtight to maintain the cool temperature inside. The door should be insulated to prevent heat transfer.
  6. Flooring: Use concrete patio steps for the floor. This material is durable and prevents moisture from seeping into the root cellar. Concrete also helps to maintain a consistent temperature.
  7. Install the Air Conditioner: Place a small air conditioner inside the root cellar. Set the temperature to 62°F. This temperature is ideal for preserving produce. To manage humidity, place charcoal on tin plates inside the root cellar. The charcoal absorbs excess moisture, keeping the air dry.
  8. Add Storage Shelves: Install storage shelves from floor to ceiling. These shelves provide ample storage space for your produce. Use crates to store potatoes, apples, and onions. The crates keep the produce off the floor and make it easy to access.
  9. Solar Backup: Consider adding a solar backup system for the air conditioner. This ensures the root cellar remains cool during power outages. A solar panel and battery system can provide the necessary power to run the air conditioner.

Final Touches

Once the root cellar is complete, you can start storing your produce. Place crates of potatoes, apples, and onions on the shelves. The cool, dry environment will extend the shelf life of your produce for two months or more. Regularly check the temperature and humidity levels to ensure optimal conditions for storage.

Conclusion

Building an aboveground root cellar in Florida requires careful planning and execution. By following these steps, you can create a storage space that keeps your produce fresh and ready to use. This project is a great way to extend the life of your produce and reduce food waste.

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