Jul
Growing Advice
How to Sow and Grow Beetroot
Beetroots are a versatile and nutritious addition to any garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, growing beetroots can be a rewarding experience. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of sowing and growing beetroots, from preparing the soil to harvesting the sweet, earthy roots.
Why Grow Beetroots?
Beetroots are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, iron, and fibre. They’re also known for their antioxidant properties and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups. Plus, they’re relatively easy to grow and can be planted in both spring and autumn.
Choosing the Right Variety
There are several varieties of beetroots to choose from, each with its own unique flavour and colour. Some popular varieties include:
Preparing the Soil
Beetroots thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Here’s how to prepare your garden bed:
- Clear the Area: Remove any weeds and debris from the planting area.
- Loosen the Soil: Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches.
- Amend the Soil: Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Sowing the Seeds
Beetroot seeds are actually clusters of seeds, which means you might get multiple seedlings from each one. Here’s how to sow them:
- Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden about 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost date in spring, or in late summer for an autumn harvest.
- Spacing: Plant the seeds about 2 cm deep and 5 cm apart in rows spaced 30-40 cm apart.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 5-10 days.
Thinning the Seedlings
Once the seedlings are about 4 cm tall, thin them to about 5-10 cm apart. This gives each beetroot enough space to grow to its full size. The thinned seedlings can be added to salads as microgreens.
Caring for Your Beetroots
Proper care ensures healthy growth and a good harvest:
- Watering: Beetroots need consistent moisture. Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests and Diseases
Beetroots are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but you should still keep an eye out for common issues:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.
- Flea Beetles: Cover young plants with row covers to protect them from these small, jumping beetles.
- Leaf Spots and Mildew: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Harvesting
Beetroots are usually ready to harvest 7-8 weeks after planting. Here’s how to harvest them:
- Root Size: Harvest when the roots are about the size of a golf ball to a tennis ball. Larger beetroots can become woody and tough.
- Leaves: You can also harvest beet greens as the plants grow. Just be sure to leave enough leaves on the plant for it to continue growing.
Storing your Beetroots
If you have a surplus of beetroots, you can store them for later use:
- Refrigeration: Store beetroots in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Root Cellar: If you have a root cellar, you can store beetroots in damp sand or sawdust for several months.
- Freezing: Beetroots can also be cooked, sliced, and frozen for longer storage.
Growing beetroots is a rewarding endeavour that can yield delicious and nutritious results. By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of beetroots right from your garden. Whether you eat them fresh, cook them, or store them for later, beetroots are a versatile and healthy addition to your diet. Happy gardening!
