How can you protect potatoes in the cellar from mice? - briefly
Place potatoes in sealed, «rodent‑proof containers» such as heavy‑gauge plastic bins with tight‑fitting lids and keep the cellar free of debris and food scraps. Seal all gaps with steel mesh or copper‑coated wire, and use traps or natural repellents like peppermint oil to deter mice.
How can you protect potatoes in the cellar from mice? - in detail
Rodents entering underground storage cause spoilage and loss of potatoes. Effective protection relies on eliminating entry points, creating physical barriers, employing deterrents, and maintaining a clean environment.
Sealing the structure prevents infiltration.
- Inspect walls, floors, and ceiling for gaps larger than ¼ inch; fill with steel wool, cement, or metal mesh.
- Install door sweeps and weather‑stripping on access doors.
- Repair cracks in foundation with mortar or epoxy.
- Ensure ventilation openings are covered with fine metal screens.
Physical containment limits contact with rodents.
- Store potatoes in airtight containers made of heavy‑gauge plastic or metal.
- Place containers on raised platforms to avoid direct floor contact.
- Use snap traps or live‑capture traps around the perimeter; position baited devices along walls and near suspected pathways.
- Position traps at least 2 feet apart to cover the entire area.
Deterrents discourage activity without harming the crop.
- Apply natural repellents such as peppermint oil or crushed dried mint to the exterior of storage units.
- Distribute ultrasonic repellent devices, ensuring they are positioned at least 12 inches apart for full coverage.
- Avoid toxic rodenticides that may contaminate the produce.
Regular maintenance sustains protection.
- Remove debris, spilled grain, and other food sources that attract rodents.
- Conduct weekly inspections of seals, traps, and container integrity.
- Rotate stored potatoes every few months to detect early signs of damage.
- Keep humidity below 60 % to reduce mold and discourage nesting.
Combining structural sealing, secure containers, strategic trapping, appropriate repellents, and diligent upkeep creates a comprehensive system that safeguards underground potato stores from rodent damage.