How can I keep potatoes in a cellar safe from mice? - briefly
Store potatoes in heavy‑gauge plastic bins with tight‑fitting lids and keep the cellar clean, dry, and free of food debris. Seal all cracks and openings in walls and floors, and use traps or ultrasonic deterrents to prevent rodent entry.
How can I keep potatoes in a cellar safe from mice? - in detail
Storing potatoes in a basement requires measures that eliminate entry points, deter rodents, and maintain conditions unsuitable for infestation.
First, seal all cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, floors, and around utility pipes. Use steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing to block holes larger than ¼ inch, as mice can squeeze through smaller spaces. Install door sweeps on cellar doors and ensure that any ventilation grilles are fitted with fine mesh.
Second, choose storage containers that resist gnawing. Heavy‑duty plastic bins with tight‑locking lids, metal drums, or glass jars prevent direct access. Place containers on pallets or shelving to keep potatoes off the concrete floor, which can become damp and attract pests.
Third, control the environment. Keep temperature between 45–50 °F (7–10 °C) and humidity below 60 %. Use a dehumidifier or proper ventilation to prevent condensation. Regularly inspect for moisture leaks and repair them promptly.
Fourth, implement monitoring and removal tactics:
- Set snap traps or electronic traps along walls and near potential entry points; check and reset them weekly.
- Deploy non‑toxic rodent repellents, such as peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls, in corners and behind containers; replace every few days.
- Maintain a clean perimeter: sweep away debris, remove spilled grain or food waste, and store any additional produce in sealed containers.
Fifth, schedule periodic inspections. Every two weeks, examine containers for signs of chewing, droppings, or gnaw marks. Discard any potatoes showing sprouting, soft spots, or foul odor, as damaged tubers attract rodents.
By combining structural sealing, rodent‑proof containers, controlled climate, active trapping, and routine checks, potatoes can be kept in a cellar without mouse damage.