Sowing and Growing Guide for Beets (Beta vulgaris) [Beetroot] in home gardens
Description
Beets (Beetroot) are very easy to grow from seed. You can eat beetroot leaves as well as the tubers. The leaves are a great addition to salads. Plant in batches so that you have a steady supply that you can use straight from the garden. Water very well after sowing, or soak the seeds in warm water for several hours before planting. This helps to plumb the seeds and to separate them as they are often clumped. The seeds are small so mix with sand to help them spread out when they are sown. Depending on the germination rate, thin the seedlings out to prevent over crowding. Sow in a zig-zag pattern rather than a straight line. Do not leave the bulbs in the ground beyond about 60 days to ensure they are tender and the cares do not harden. Pick some bulbs when they are about the size of small eggs and use them whole in salads.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed directly in the soil at a depth about 5 mm (1/4 inch) - about 3 times the diameter of the seed.
Space between plants: 20-30 cm ( 10 inches) apart after thinning. Sow seeds at half this spacing.
Harvest Time: First harvest in 7-9 weeks. Pick continuously to avoid a glut. Use some bulbs when small and tender
Hints:
- Keep well watered, and weeded
- Sow in rows in batches to extend the cropping time
- Keep the bulbs covered in soil to ensure an even color and to help prevent hardening
- The shoots can be used in salads and stir-fries
- Beetroot can be roasted, either whole or cut into wedges.
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!