Apples In a bag with holes in the refrigerator separate from other produce - Once picked, apples continue to ripen and get softer. However, their sweetness remains the same as the day they were picked. Apples can cause other produce to rot if stored next to them.
Bananas On the counter store loose and away from light, heat, moisture, and other produce. The ethylene gas emitted by bananas can quickly ruin any produce stored next to it.
Grapes Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator and wash only prior to eating. Before storing, remove and damaged or rotting grapes to protect the rest.
Melons Store loose on the counter up to 1 week or in the refrigerator up to 3 weeks. Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew) do not sweeten as they sit, though they continue to ripen and soften.
Oranges Store loose on the countertop for 1-5 days or in the refrigerator up to 3 weeks. Oranges do not become sweeter once they are picked.
Broccoli Store in refrigerator crisper drawer in a plastic bag with holes or wrapped in a damp towel.
Potatoes Store in a cool, dark place with good ventilation away from onions and garlic. Properly stored potatoes will remain fresh up to 1 month.
Tomatoes Ripen on counter out of direct sunlight, then store loose in fridge. Ripe tomatoes will usually keep 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator. Wash tomatoes just before slicing. For best flavor, bring tomatoes to room temperature before serving.
Summer Squash Store summer squash, unwashed, in plastic bags in crisper drawer of refrigerator. Wash squash just before cutting. The storage life of summer squash is brief, use within 2 to 3 days.
Sweet Potatoes Store loose in a cool, dry, dark pantry or cupboard up to two months or at room temperature for up to a week.