Storage Tips
Learn proven methods to reduce spoilage and maximize your profits. Simple techniques that Ghanaian farmers have used for generations. Most methods use affordable materials you can find locally.
Browse by Category
Time Your Pepper Sales
Pepper prices typically drop during peak harvest (June-August). Plan to sell fresh pepper early in the season, or dry surplus for later sale. Dried pepper commands 2-3x the fresh price during off-season. This method requires no materials - just good planning!
Shitor hwɛ sika wɔ bɔ mu. Suma nnuafo a wote wɔ anadwo.
Box Storage for Maize
Use airtight containers or sealed bags with dried maize. Add dry neem leaves to deter weevils. Store off the ground on pallets. Check monthly for signs of pest activity.
Suma klon a ɛwɔ awere mu ma nnuafo a wote. Suma nime nkyɛnma.
Wet Sand Storage for Yams
Layer dry sand in a crate or box. Place yam tubers with spacing between each. Cover with more sand. Store in a cool, dry place. This method can keep yams fresh for 2-3 months by reducing moisture loss and preventing rot.
Siesie kɔkɔɔ a ɛdura w sand mu. Gye yam tu kwan wɔ ne mu. Kae wɔ ɛhyɛ a ɛyɛ owu.
Traditional Sun Drying of Tomatoes
Slice ripe tomatoes thinly and spread on clean mats or raised platforms in direct sunlight. Turn every few hours for even drying. Cover at night to protect from dew. Tomatoes are dry when they become leathery and dark red. Store in airtight containers away from moisture.
Sɛ wode kyekyɛ nnuafo a atware no pui pui na wugyaw wɔ ahwehwɛ deɛ so anaa apɔwm东山 boa mu. Siesie wɔ bra a ɛwɔ soro no mu. Kae wɔ anadwo.
Cool Storage for Leafy Vegetables
Wrap leafy greens in damp paper towels and place in perforated plastic bags. Store in the coolest part of your home, ideally 4-8°C. Do not wash before storing. Can extend freshness by 3-5 days.
Suma ntama a ɛyɛ mu wie nnuafo a wote. Kae wɔ ɛhyɛ a ɛyɛ owu.
Ash Treatment for Cassava
After peeling and washing cassava, coat slices with wood ash. The alkaline nature of ash helps neutralize cyanogenic glucosides and extends freshness. Store in cool, dry place.
Suma ahodwira wo nnuafo a wote. Kae wɔ ɛhyɛ a ɛyɛ owu.
Onion String Storage
After curing onions in the sun for a few days, braid or string them together using twine. Hang in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Proper curing and storage can extend shelf life to 4-6 months.
Suma alikpokas to wɔ anadwo nkyen mu na siesie wɔ kwan bi mu. Kae wɔ ɛhyɛ a ɛyɛ owu.
Know a Great Storage Tip?
Share your knowledge with fellow farmers and help reduce food waste across Ghana.
Submit Your Tip