Q&A for How to Store Collard Greens

Yes. Plants sometimes do start to smell, but if the collards were bought and refrigerated for only three days, they should be fine.

Yes, as long as you dry them before storing in the refrigerator. I'd also recommend storing them with some paper towels to soak up any residual moisture.

Cooked collard greens last up to a week when you keep them in the fridge. No more than 3 to 4 days is preferable.

They should be fine in the refrigerator as long as there is no water on the surface of the leaves. Seal them in a bag with a paper towel to soak up the moisture, or wrap the leaves in a dish towel or paper towel to absorb any moisture. However, if there is water pooled up on the leaves, pat them dry with a paper towel before putting storing them.

After washing and cutting your collard greens, they will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container or a plastic bag. To maintain freshness, place a paper towel inside the bag or container to absorb excess moisture. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze them by blanching first, allowing them to last for 8 to 12 months in the freezer.

Once collard greens are pulled and stored in a bag outside, they can last for 1 to 2 days at room temperature before wilting and losing freshness. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them. If they must be kept outside, store them in a cool, shaded area. If they start to wilt, placing them in cold water for a few hours can help revive them before proper storage.

After washing, you can freeze collard greens for 8 to 12 months. For best quality, blanch them by boiling for 2-3 minutes and then cooling in ice water before drying and storing in airtight bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.

To prepare fresh-cut collard greens for mailing, wash and dry them thoroughly. Wrap the greens in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, then place them in a plastic or vacuum-sealed bag to reduce air exposure. Use insulated packaging, like foam or bubble wrap, and include an ice pack if necessary to keep them cool during transit. Choose 2-day or overnight shipping to minimize the time they spend in transit, ensuring they arrive fresh and in good condition.

It's best to cut collard greens after cooking to maintain their texture and flavor. Acidic seasonings from meat, like vinegar or tomatoes, can cause greens to turn dull green by interacting with chlorophyll. To retain vibrant color, cook collards separately and mix them with meat and seasoning afterward.