Growing Beetroot: A Step-By-Step Guide

Introduction

Beetroots (Beta vulgaris) are a popular root vegetable often grown as part of a backyard veggie patch. With their deep crimson hue and delicate sweet flavor, they make a colorful addition to salads and other dishes. Growing beetroot is easy and straightforward and can usually be done in a matter of weeks. Here, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide for how to get your own beetroot patch up and running.

Step 1: Selecting The Right Variety

Beetroots come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. It’s important to do some research and select a variety suitable to your climate. For example, 'Early Wonder' beetroot is generally a better choice for regions with cooler summers. In hotter, humid climates, 'Detroit Dark Red' is a better option. It's also advised to choose a seed variety that is disease-resistant for a more bountiful crop.

Step 2: Preparing The Soil

It’s essential to prepare the soil before sowing the seeds. Choose a spot in full sun and work with a trowel to loosen the soil. Beetroots prefer slightly acidic, nutrient-rich soil, so it’s a good idea to add some compost or aged manure into the mix. If you’re a beginner, and want to get a quick result, you can also buy a special potting mix specifically designed for beetroots.

Step 3: Planting The Seeds

Beetroots generally take 40 to 50 days to reach their full size. With this in mind, mark off a piece of soil measuring around two feet in length and then create rows that are approximately 1 inch deep. Sow seeds that are about 1 inch apart and firm them into the soil. Water thoroughly after planting.

Step 4: Growing And Harvesting

Beetroots need about an inch of water every week. Make sure to water your patch evenly and deeply. If the weather is especially hot and dry, increase watering to 1.5 inches per week. The beetroots are ready to be harvested when the root is about 2.5 inches in size. Use your hands to pull the beetroot from the soil. If the soil is hard, a garden fork may be easier.

Step 5: Curing The Roots

Curing is a storage technique that helps preserve the beetroots’ sweet flavor and deep red color. After harvesting, trim off the leaves and rinse the roots. Place the beetroots in a cardboard box in a single layer, cover with damp newspaper and store in a cool area. Leave for around 20 days and then move them to a cooler storage area.

Step 6: Cooking The Beetroots

After curing the beetroots, they are ready to be cooked. Beetroots can be boiled, steamed, roasted, pickled and even added to salads. Make sure to remove the skins before eating.

Tips And Tricks

Growing beetroot doesn’t have to be tricky. Here are some extra tips for a bumper harvest:

• Beetroot leaves also make a delicious salad. Harvest the leaves when they are young and tender.
• Mulch the soil with compost and straw to help retain moisture. A layer of around 2 inches should do the trick.
• Regular weeding is essential. Beetroots tend to be quite small and get easily crowded out by weeds.
• Beetroots are sensitive to frost, so if temperatures drop, cover them with a blanket or plastic sheet.

Conclusion

Following the steps above, anyone can start growing their own beetroots at home. With a bit of patience and some good soil, you can enjoy the rewards of your bounty. Happy gardening!