Beetroot Growing Guide: from seed to kitchen

How to Grow Beetroot (Beta vulgaris)

Seeds per gram (Sds/g): 30–75
Feed Requirements: Low
Optimal Germination Temperature: 10–28°C

Position & Soil

• Soil Type & Preparation:
• Grows well in most soil types (including light clays) as long as the top 10 cm of soil is loosened.
• Work 2 cm of compost or well-rotted manure into the topsoil to improve fertility and drainage.
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
• pH Range: Ideally around 6.0–7.0.

Sowing & Germination

1. Sowing Times:
• Sow from mid-spring through late summer for a succession of harvests. In mild climates, beets can also be sown in early autumn.
2. Seed Depth & Spacing:
• Sow seeds about 1–2 cm deep (no deeper than 3 cm).
• Place seeds every few centimeters along the row.
• Space rows 45–60 cm apart.
3. Thinning:
• Thin seedlings when they reach 8–10 cm tall, leaving 5–10 cm between each plant.
• A second thinning can be done if the rows become crowded. Use the leaves from this thinning in salads.
4. Germination Tips:
• Keep the soil evenly moist until germination (usually 5–10 days, depending on temperature).
• Avoid letting the soil dry out or become waterlogged.

Cultivation & General Care

• Watering:
• Water regularly to promote steady growth and prevent woody, fibrous roots.
• Aim for consistent, moderate moisture; avoid waterlogging.
• Feeding:
• Beetroot has relatively low feed requirements. A well-prepared soil with compost is often sufficient.
• If growth slows or leaves appear pale, lightly side-dress with an all-purpose organic fertilizer.
• Succession Planting:
• Sow small batches every 2 weeks for a continual harvest and to avoid large beets becoming woody.
• Stress & Bolting:
• Beetroot can become woody and lose sweetness if it is stressed (e.g., by lack of water) or allowed to fully mature for too long.
• Hot weather can also cause plants to bolt (go to seed). Keep soil moisture even and harvest on time to reduce the risk of bolting.
• Using the Greens:
• Young beetroot leaves are excellent in salads. Mature leaves can be lightly steamed or stir-fried.

Potential Problems

• Root Cracking / Forking:
• Can happen if soil is too compacted or if there are sudden changes in water availability.
• Leaf Spot / Fungal Diseases:
• Avoid overhead watering late in the day; ensure good air circulation by adequate spacing.
• Pests (Slugs & Snails):
• These can target young seedlings. Use organic slug traps or barriers if needed.

Harvesting & Storage

• When to Harvest:
• Harvest as soon as the roots reach your desired size—anywhere from golf ball-sized (baby beet) up to tennis ball-sized.
• Don’t leave mature beetroot in the ground too long in warm weather or they may become woody.
• Overwintering / Storing in Ground:
• Many beetroot varieties tolerate cold winters well and can remain in the ground until needed.
• In regions with severe frosts, protect roots by mounding soil or mulch over them; if the roots freeze and then thaw, they can rot.
• Post-Harvest Storage:
• For short-term storage, trim leaves (leaving a small stalk) and store roots in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator.
• Leaves can be used fresh in salads or cooked immediately for best flavour.

Additional Tips:

• Taste & Nutrition:
• Beetroot is rich in antioxidants and potassium (helping regulate blood pressure).
• For a refreshing dish, try peeling and grating raw beetroot with walnuts or sunflower seeds and balsamic vinegar.
• Continuous Supply:
• By staggering plantings every 2–3 weeks, gardeners ensure a steady supply of tender beets without them becoming woody or over-mature.

By following these germination, cultivation, and harvesting guidelines, you can enjoy crisp, sweet, homegrown beetroot well beyond what is typically available in supermarkets.