Beetroot Farming: A Practical Guide

Introduction

Beetroot is a cool-season root crop valued for its sweet-tasting taproot and nutritious greens. It grows well in home gardens and small farms when given cool weather, loose soil, and steady moisture.

Beets are relatively forgiving: you can start with seeds or transplants in some regions, and many varieties store well after harvest.

Choosing varieties

Globe beets

Globe beets are the most common type in markets. They form round to flattened roots and tend to be uniform in size, which can simplify harvesting and shipping.

Cylindrical beets

Cylindrical or long beets often have faster, more even cooking and may store differently. They work well for fresh market and home gardeners.

Color and flavor differences

Most beets stay reddish-purple, but there are golden or candy-striped Chioggia varieties. Flavor ranges from mild to earthier depending on variety and growing conditions.

Site and soil preparation

Beets prefer pH 6.0-7.0 and deep, well-drained soil. Remove stones and till to loosen soil to at least 12–18 inches deep. Add compost or a balanced fertilizer before planting, based on soil test results. Avoid heavy manuring with nitrogen, which can cause lush tops and small roots.

Planting and spacing

Direct sowing and spacing

Direct sow seeds in rows about 30-45 cm apart, with seeds spaced 2-4 cm apart within the row. After germination, thin to 5-10 cm between plants to allow root development.

Seed and germination notes

Beet seeds are clusters of several seeds; thinning helps establish uniform roots. Keep soil consistently moist for best germination.

Irrigation and moisture management

Beets need steady moisture for uniform root development. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses and apply about 25-38 mm of water per week, adjusting for rainfall and soil type. Mulching helps reduce evaporation and keep roots clean.

Fertilization

Apply a light, balanced fertilizer at planting and avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes greens at the expense of roots. If leaves look pale or growth slows, side-dress with potassium and phosphorus according to soil test results.

Weeds and pest management

Keep beds weed-free around germination, then maintain with regular cultivation or mulch. Common pests include flea beetles, leaf miners, and root maggots. Use row covers early, rotate crops, and remove heavily damaged plants. Monitor for diseases like leaf spots; practice crop rotation and good sanitation.

Harvesting and storage

Most beet varieties are ready 50-70 days after sowing when roots reach 3-7 cm in diameter. Harvest promptly to avoid pithiness for larger roots. Leave 2-3 cm of greens on the root for storage. Brush off soil and cure if needed before refrigeration; store at 0-4 C with high humidity to maximize shelf life.

Crop rotation and sustainability

Rotate beets with legumes, cereals, or brassicas, avoiding planting in the same bed for 2-3 seasons. This helps reduce soil pests and diseases and maintains soil structure. Compost and minimal tillage practices can boost soil health.

Final tips

Keep records of varieties and harvest dates to plan succession plantings. Harvest when roots are tender and flavors are freshest. For long-term storage, keep beets in a cool, humid place or the refrigerator.