Beetroot

Looking for an easy-to-grow, versatile veggie that packs a nutritional punch? Then look no further than the humble beetroot! This vibrant root vegetable is a fantastic addition to any garden, and is perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you're after those classic deep red roots, or fancy trying out golden or cylindrical varieties, there's a beetroot out there for you. Plus, you can eat the leaves too - bonus!

Beetroot: The Low-Down

Beetroot is super easy to grow, relatively pest and disease free and can be sown for most of the growing season. You can start them indoors in modules to get a head start, or direct sow them straight into the ground. Expect to be harvesting your delicious beetroot around 8 to 12 weeks after sowing. You can eat the leaves like spinach, or the roots roasted, pickled, in salads, and even in cakes!

Getting Started with Beetroot

When to Sow: You can start beetroot seeds indoors in modules in March if you're keen to get going. Otherwise, you can directly sow seeds outdoors from April to mid-summer, for a continuous harvest of these tasty roots. Succession sowing is key here - try sowing a new batch every few weeks to keep those roots coming.

Where to Sow: Beetroot loves a sunny spot with fertile, well-drained soil. They're not fans of acidic soils, so if your soil is a bit on the sour side, add some lime to get the pH up to around 6.5. Sow the seeds thinly, about 1-2cm deep, with 10cm spacing between each one.

Planting Out: If you started your beetroot indoors, plant the seedlings out later in the spring once they have a few true leaves and all risk of frost has passed.

Beetroot Care Tips

Watering: Keep your beetroot plants well watered, especially during dry spells, as this will help them swell nicely.

Thinning: Once your seedlings are up, you'll need to thin them out to around 10cm apart. Don't throw the thinnings away though, they make a tasty addition to salads!

Fertilising: Beetroot isn't a heavy feeder, so you don't need to add loads of fertiliser. A well balanced, organic feed is all that's required.

Harvesting and Enjoying Your Beetroot

Harvesting: You'll be able to start harvesting your beetroots from about 8 to 12 weeks after sowing. Simply lift the roots carefully using a hand fork or trowel to avoid damaging them.

Storage: Mature beetroots can be stored in a cool, dry place. Some varieties can even be left in the ground and harvested throughout the winter.

Beetroot Benefits: Not only is beetroot delicious and easy to grow, but it's also incredibly good for you! It's packed with nutrients and antioxidants, and is known to help with lowering blood pressure, improving stamina, and reducing inflammation. It truly is a super food!

Beetroot Varieties

There's a huge selection of different beetroot varieties to choose from. For classic, round deep red types, try 'Boltardy' or 'Detroit'. For something a little different, try the cylindrical 'Cylindra' which is great for slicing or the golden yellow 'Burpees Golden'. Why not experiment with a few to find your favourite?

So, if you're looking for an easy, productive, and nutritious addition to your garden, look no further than the beetroot! Happy growing!