How do you root cellar in a hot climate?

[swd12422]

We are in a dry, hot climate that gets a damp rainy season for about a month in the winter and a month or two in summer. No one here has basements, I'm told b/c the ground isn't "good" for constructing them, whether it's b/c it's too hard, or not stable enough, I don't know. So other than building a basement, how do you root cellar when it's so hot? I always laugh when I see "store in a cool, dry place" b/c the only cool place is the fridge, and that's also the least dry place we have!

Tips?

ETA: I'm thinking longer-term storage for potatoes, canned goods from the garden, and whole grains in bulk, if that matters. I'd hate to buy several lbs of whole grains and have them go rancid in the heat!

[redvlagrl]

For grains etc, put in stoneware crocks or airtight containers. It's the dampness that will wuin them - they are dried, so shouldn't rot by themselves.

Potatoes - tough. IME, no choice but to buy frequently or keep in fridge

No experience with home canned goods, but shouldn't these be fine in a pantry?

I lived in Australia until 5 years ago where there are no basements and it's pretty warm and humid where I am from and then I was somewhere very very hot and dry, so I figure I've got hot climate experience!