Beetroot
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Beetroot is easy to grow, and one generous sowing will produce for months. Plus, the leaves are edible!
When to plant/sow in zone:
Requirements:
5-6 hours of sun a day; good drainage
Soil:
Dig through compost or well-rotted manure before planting. A pH of 6-7.5 is optimal, so add lime or dolomite if your reading is below 6.
How to start: SEED: Best sown direct in the ground, 15mm deep, 10cm apart, rows 50cm apart. Keep moist. When they emerge, thin if required. SEEDLING: Plant 10cm apart in rows 50cm apart. Water in and mulch with straw.
How to grow: Beetroot need a steady, even supply of moisture to form tender, juicy roots. Apply seaweed solution or liquid fertiliser fortnightly.
When to harvest: Harvest baby beets at 8-12 weeks. Harvest before they reach tennis ball size.
Troubleshooting:
Snails & slugs; cercospora leaf spot disease
Wondering what to plant when?
Use our planner to create a planting calendar for your climate zone
View Planting Guide
Related Articles
Why can’t I grow big beetroot?
Planting time, spacing and nutrition can all affect the size of your beets.