The practice of root cellaring is an ancient method that dates back centuries and has been used to store fresh food without the use of refrigeration. It entails preserving root vegetables, fruits, and other produce in a setting that is cool, dark, and humid, like a root cellar or an underground pit. The shelf life of vegetables can be extended through root cellaring from a few days or weeks to several months, which enables individuals to have access to food that is both fresh and healthful throughout the entire year.

The concept of root cellaring originates from the observation that many types of fruits and vegetables continue to "breathe" after they have been harvested, meaning that they continue to use oxygen while simultaneously releasing carbon dioxide and water vapor. It is possible for the produce to go bad or decay if the environment in which it is stored is not correctly controlled, which would result in wasted food and a loss of resources. The purpose of root cellaring is to slow down the process of respiration that produce goes through and to establish the ideal storage conditions in order to maintain the food's freshness and flavor as long as possible.

The habit of storing roots in cellars extends back to ancient times, when individuals were forced to rely on their own abilities and resources to ensure that their families had enough food to eat. For instance, in ancient Egypt, underground pits were utilized for the storage of onions, garlic, and various other types of root crops. In Europe during the middle ages, root cellars were common and were used to store root vegetables and other products to be consumed during the colder months of the year. Early immigrants and pioneers in North America made extensive use of root cellars in order to store their harvests for a longer period of time and assure a steady supply of fresh produce.