Tips on Dressing and Handling Vegetables Dirt detracts from the appearance of vegetables, but it is not always advisable to wash vegetables to clean them. Root vegetables will have less soil adhere to their roots if dug from relatively dry soil. If washing is necessary, soak the roots in cool water and gently wash with a stream of water or a soft cloth. Remove tops from root vegetables as soon as they are dug. The tops draw moisture from the roots and will cause them to shrivel if left attached.
Most vegetables are best when harvested fresh and used promptly.
Harvest as close to time of use as practical to keep storage time to a minimum. Many vegetables can be kept fresh longer by enclosing them in a plastic bag. Vegetables Different vegetables require warm, cool, or cold storage to maintain top quality. Some vegetables should be stored moist, and some vegetables should be stored dry. The following are some of the combinations of temperature and humidity, and suggestions as to where to find these conditions at home.