Yuci County in Shanxi Province has long been known for its effective use of cave storage to preserve pears, with excellent results that make it a promising method worth promoting in northern regions. The technique involves several key steps. First, a triangular vent hole is created at the entrance of the cave, and a moderate ventilation hole is dug through the ground near the bottom of the inner wall. Along the length of the cave, three mounds are built on both sides and the center—each about 0.4 to 0.5 meters high and 0.3 to 0.5 meters wide. These mounds serve as the base for the pear bed.
Before placing the pears, a layer of sorghum stalk curtains is laid over the mounds to provide insulation and protection. The selected pears are then arranged on top of this layer, stacked to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. This arrangement ensures proper air circulation beneath the pear bed, making winter management more efficient and manageable.
Once winter begins and temperatures drop, thick paper is used to cover the door and windows, while keeping the three small ventilation holes at the top of the door open. When it gets extremely cold, straw can be placed outside the door to block the entrance, leaving only the top vents open for controlled airflow. If the weather becomes too harsh, these top vents can be temporarily sealed. As spring approaches and temperatures rise after the vernal equinox, the straw blocking the door is gradually removed, allowing for natural ventilation and preparing the cave for the next season.
This method not only preserves the quality of the pears but also makes use of natural temperature regulation, reducing the need for artificial cooling or heating. It's a sustainable and cost-effective approach that has proven successful in Yuci County and could be adapted in other similar climates.
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