Sowing, Growing, + Harvesting Beets – Seeds 'n Such

Beets, also known as beetroots, are a type of root vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean region. They are flavorful, nutritious, and easy to grow in the garden. They are a good source of nutrients, including fiber, folate, and vitamin C. Beets come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, and white, and can be eaten fresh or cooked in a variety of dishes. The greens of beets, which are the leaves attached to the root, are also edible and can be cooked or eaten raw in salads. They are also commonly used as a natural food coloring in a variety of products.

Sowing

Beets can be sown directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in the early spring, about 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost date. They can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.
Choose a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil. Beets can tolerate some shade.
Sow beet seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in rows. Space rows about 12-18 inches apart. You can thin the seedlings later to achieve proper spacing.
Keep the soil consistently moist to aid germination. Beets can take up to 14 days to sprout.

Growing

Thin the beet seedlings when they reach a few inches in height, leaving 3-4 inches between plants for good root development.
Water the beets regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Consistent moisture is important to prevent the beets from becoming tough and fibrous.
Fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Harvesting

Beets can be harvested at different stages depending on your preference. Young, tender beets are suitable for salads, while larger ones can be cooked.
You can begin harvesting beets as early as 7-8 weeks after planting. To check if they're ready, gently pull one from the ground. If it's the size you desire and the root pulls easily, it's ready for harvest.
Use a garden fork or your hands to carefully lift the beets from the ground. Be sure not to damage the root when harvesting.

Storing

After harvesting, remove the tops of the beets, leaving about an inch of stem attached. This will help the beets store longer by preventing moisture loss.
Store beets in a cool, humid place, such as a root cellar or the vegetable crisper of your refrigerator. Beets can be stored for several months if kept around 32-40°F (0-4°C) and at high humidity.
You can also store beets by canning, pickling, or freezing. Canning and pickling require specific equipment and techniques, while freezing involves blanching the beets before storing them in airtight containers.

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