How to Grow Beetroot: Vibrant Roots and Delicious Greens

Beets are a versatile crop, offering both colorful, sweet roots and nutrient-packed greens. They grow quickly and thrive in a variety of climates, making them a great choice for gardeners of all experience levels.

Use this guide as a flexible foundation, and adjust as needed to find what works best in your garden.

Choosing the Right Beetroot Variety

Beets come in a range of colors and flavors, from the classic deep red to golden and even striped varieties.

Popular Varieties:

Detroit Dark Red: A classic beet with deep red roots and tender greens.
Golden Beets: Bright yellow roots with a milder, sweeter flavor.

Chioggia (Candy Cane): Italian heirloom variety with striking red and white rings.
Cylindra: Long, cylindrical beets that are easy to slice and great for roasting.

Tip: Grow a mix of varieties to enjoy a range of colors, flavors, and textures.

Preparing the Soil

Beets prefer loose, well-draining soil that allows their roots to develop without obstruction.

Basic Soil Guidelines:

Loosen the soil to at least 20 cm (8 inches) deep and remove rocks or debris.

Add compost or aged manure to enrich the soil.
Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0).

Experiment: Test different soil amendments to see how they affect the size and flavor of your beets.

Planting Your Beets

Direct Sowing:
- Beets grow best when sown directly into the garden. Plant seeds 1 to 2 cm (0.5 to 1 inch) deep, spaced 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3 inches) apart.
- Sow seeds as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring, or in late summer for a fall harvest.

Succession Planting:
- For a continuous harvest, sow new seeds every 2 to 3 weeks.
Sunlight Needs:
- Beets prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Caring for Your Beets

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Beets need about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week.
Thinning: Once seedlings are 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3 inches) tall, thin them to 7.5 to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) apart to give roots room to develop.

Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Observation Tip: Thinned seedlings make delicious additions to salads, so don’t let them go to waste!

Harvesting Your Beets

Beets are typically ready to harvest 50 to 70 days after planting, depending on the variety.

How to Harvest:

Harvest beets when roots are 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3 inches) in diameter for the best flavor and texture.
Gently loosen the soil around the roots and pull them up by their greens.

Try it and see: Harvest smaller beets for tender, sweet roots, or let them grow larger for a heartier flavor.

Storing Beets

Proper storage keeps beets fresh and flavorful for months.

How to Store Beets:

Short-Term Storage: Remove the greens (leave about 2.5 cm or 1 inch of stem) and store the roots in the refrigerator in a perforated bag for up to 2 weeks.
Long-Term Storage: Beets can be stored in a cool, dark, and humid place (like a root cellar) for several months.
Freezing: Cook, peel, and slice beets before freezing them in airtight containers.

Tip: Store the greens separately and use them within a few days–they’re delicious sauteed or added to soups and stews.

Common Beet Growing Problems

Poor Germination:
- Beets can be slow to germinate in cold soil. Soak seeds overnight before planting to improve germination rates.

Forked or Misshapen Roots:
- Caused by compacted or rocky soil. Ensure the soil is loose and free of obstructions.
Leaf Spots or Yellowing:
- Often due to fungal diseases or nutrient deficiencies. Practice crop rotation and avoid overhead watering.

Final Thoughts: Your Garden, Your Beets

Beets are a colorful and rewarding crop that offers both delicious roots and nutritious greens. While these guidelines provide a strong foundation, the best results come from observing your plants and adjusting your care based on your garden’s conditions.

Happy gardening, and enjoy your vibrant, homegrown beets!