Reader Request: Where To Get An Orchard Rack

The other day someone asked me where to get an orchard rack like the one I showed in this post about storing things in my "root cellar".

Years ago, people stored "keeper" crops such as apples, winter squash, onions and potatoes on rustic wooden racks like this one. The drawers are slatted to ensure good air circulation, and they slide out for easy access. For best results, the rack should be located in a cool, dark cellar or shed.

You can get them from

Gardener's Supply Company

as a

6 Drawer Orchard Rack

or a

9 Drawer Orchard Rack

You could also use baskets like these 

from Ikea that attach underneath a shelf:

I like these especially for apples.  Apples need to be stored in shallow layers so that they don't bruise each other plus it makes it easier to check on them this way. That's why I like the above two options, but half bushel baskets and slatted crates work well too.

They like nice cold temperatures, as low as 32 degrees, but can also be kept a little warmer, they just won't last quite as long. So depending on the temperature they're kept at you could possibly have fresh apples clear til spring. Wouldn't that be lovely?

But if they become softer than you'd like for fresh eating you can always serve them as baked apples or applesauce. Mmmm!

P.S.   Don't keep your stored apples near your potatoes. They don't play well together at all!