Some fruits and vegetables have specific temperature preferences, like cucumbers, which last longest when kept between 50 to 54 degrees F rather than the usual fridge temperature of 35 to 40 degrees F. Tomatoes prefer room temperature, and grapes like a slightly colder environment between 32 and 36 degrees F. Considering these temperature preferences can help people extend the life of their produce.

Beyond temperature considerations, some fruits and veggies should be stored separately to avoid transferring odors and flavors. Onions and garlic certainly have potent aromas that can overpower the smell and taste of other, more delicate, items like apples, pears, carrots, and celery, so it’s best to store them apart.

One key rule is to separate high-ethylene producers from ethylene-sensitive fruits and vegetables. Ethylene is a natural gas emitted by certain produce items that trigger the ripening process. For instance, under-ripe avocados remain hard until exposed to ethylene, which transforms them into a creamy, buttery consistency. However, when high-ethylene producers are stored too close to ethylene-sensitive items, the latter can ripen too quickly, leading to rapid deterioration.

To avoid this, experts recommend keeping ethylene producers at least six to eight inches away from sensitive fruits and vegetables. This step can extend the freshness and quality of produce, reducing spoilage and the number of items that go to waste. By keeping certain fruits and vegetables at a distance and being mindful of ethylene emissions, individuals can ensure their ingredients remain fresh and flavorful for longer, making the most of their produce investments.

Ethylene-Sensitive Fruits and Vegetables:

• Sweet Potatoes
• Grapes
• Cherries
• Kiwi
• Mangos
• Peppers
• Pears
• Avocados
• Lettuce
• Plums
• Melons
• Squash
• Lemons and Limes
• Apples
• Peaches
• Eggplant
• Nectarines
• Bananas
• Broccoli
• Onions
• Apricots
• Cauliflower
• Collard Greens
• Asparagus
• Cucumber
• Cabbage

Fruits and Vegetables That Are Not Ethylene-Sensitive:

• Cherries
• Grapefruit
• Blueberries
• Green Beans
• Oranges
• Garlic
• Pineapple
• Potatoes
• Strawberries
• Raspberries
• Tomatoes

There are also other ways to make produce last longer. These are practices like using the oldest fruits and vegetables first or washing each item only right before preparing it. One very important practice is to never store onions and potatoes together. Produce should also be kept dry to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. Most produce also require circulating air to stay fresh longer, so using bags with holes or paper bags is better than airtight bags. Vegetables will also stay fresh if they are kept whole and not cut after purchase.

The bottom line is that fruits and vegetables should be stored separately depending on their smell, temperature, and ethylene gas production levels. According to experts, an easy way to remember which vegetables and fruits to store together is to just store like produce together. For example, brassica vegetables can be stored together, berries can be stored together, leafy greens can be together, and root vegetables, excluding potatoes, can also go together.

The notion of biophilic design originates from the concept of biophilia, which describes the inclination of humans to engage with other living organisms. As applied to design, it involves establishing a feeling of concordance between one’s dwelling and the natural environment and is presently among the most popular trends in interior design.

A recent trend report highlighted the increasing popularity of biophilic design, with a notable surge in search interest for the term and industry experts frequently mentioning it as a buzzword. This trend is gaining traction on its own after the emergence of soothing space designs that promote health and well-being. Now, the focus on nature in biophilic design is becoming more prominent.

Live plants offer a simple method of incorporating biophilic design into a home. For those new to plant care, it’s advisable to start with low-maintenance plants for a desk or a set of potted herbs on a kitchen windowsill. Experienced indoor gardeners may take things a step further and creatively integrate greenery into the room’s design by expanding their plant collection. To fully enjoy the benefits of biophilic design, one could dedicate an entire wall, staircase, or corner of the home to various types of leafy plants.

Individuals who reside in areas encompassed by natural surroundings have the opportunity to maximize their home’s architecture by embracing the outdoors. One way to achieve this is by installing large picture windows without grilles or sashes to frame scenic views. This technique allows nature to function as wall art. In addition, a skylight can be fitted in bathrooms, hallways, or kitchens to provide views of the sky.

Establishing a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces is an excellent method for integrating nature into a home’s design. One option is to install sliding doors, which can be opened to merge the living room with an outdoor patio. Other possibilities include adding a balcony to the bedroom or a deck that connects to the kitchen, making nature a deliberate part of the design. At the very least, opening a window can provide fresh air and allow one to listen to the sounds of rain, wind, or birds.

Biophilic design can be implemented in more abstract ways, not solely by incorporating living plants. One can replicate nature’s textures, colors, and shapes by using materials such as wood, leather, and stone to bring the outdoors in. Using muted, organic tones in preferred color schemes can also be an effective solution. Adding subtle references to nature in home decor is a simple and often cost-effective method to create the peaceful ambiance associated with biophilic design.