Keeping Russet Potatoes: the Green and the Sprouts?

[rotuts]

how does one now days 'keep' potatoes, esp. russets:

I know the 'green' comes from light ( a dark place ...)

but how does one prevent sprouts?

I used to read about root cellars etc but that was some time ago ...

[andiesenji]

When I used to grow my own potatoes I buried the harvested spuds in a large tub of dry coarse sand (also called "sharp" sand) in the coolest corner of my pantry.

Now I have a canvas bag and store potatoes in the bag with an apple - which works for up to a month.

[KennethT]

What's the purpose of the apple?

[heidih]

I keep them in an open paper bag at the back of the clothes closet which has decent ventilation. I have found they tend to sprout faster if stored near the onions so they are in separate closets. The condition of the potatoes when purchased is also a factor - the firmer and more "eye free" at the start, the longer storage - in my experience. Also pays to check frequently to make sure you don't have one stinker in the mix.

[Ashen]

I am sure most know this but dirty unwashed potatoes store longer in better condition. Dry, cool , dark place with decent ventilation and they can go for months . My wife and I buy a 50 lb burlap sack this time of year and it lasts to after christmas with few problems and little sprouting.