Beetroot is an easy straightforward plant to grow, which makes them popular with amateur gardeners. It is very tasty an healthy when cooked, after which most people pickle them. It is an attractive plant with striking purple stem and contrasting rich green leaves.
Globe type beetroot are tolerant of most soil types if the soil drains well and does not dry out in the summer. A deep sandy loam would be ideal with a neutral ph level, so add some lime if your soil is acidic. Manure should be added in the winter, as fresh manure will cause deformed root shape. Beet s will thrive if sited in a sunny location.
When the risk of frost has past so seeds directly outdoors in to the prepared bed. Drills should be about 30cms apart and 2.5cms deep. After sowing, refill the drills with a layer of fine soil, a rake is ideal for this.
Germination should occur between 12-24 days depending on the temperature. When the plants are large enough to handle, thin seedlings to about 3 to 6 cms apart. Thin again as the plants become
crowded to about 10-15cms apart.
Throughout the growing period do not let the soil completely dry out, as this increases the chance of the beetroot bolting.
Beetroot's can be harvested when they reach a diameter of 2.5cm, the younger beets are more tasty.
