Growing Beetroot
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Harvesting and Storing Beetroot
Harvesting of globe beetroot can begin around nine weeks after sowing the seed. At this stage the bulbs will be about 2.5cm (1in) in diameter and they will be at their most tender - important for salads. These first pickings should be evenly applied over growing area to give the remaining beetroot good room to grow larger.

Continue to harvest as required until the beetroot reach about 8cm (3in) in diameter. At this point it is best to harvest all the beetroot and store them. If they are left in the ground much longer, they will become woody and not taste so good. Another sign that the roots are ready for harvest is when the foliage starts to go limp.

When harvesting beetroot, especially if they will not be eaten immediately, cut the leaves off about 5cm (2in) above the root. This will keep them fresh longer and prevent them from 'bleeding'. Use a trowel to dig gently under the bulb and gently tease it away from the soil. Avoid damaging the root in order to keep them fresh for long time.

Store the beetroot in boxes (layers separated by sand or peat) in a cool dark place such as the garage or shed. They must kept free of all but a very light frost.

Beetroot Recipes
Beetroot is a tasty and nutritious vegetable, try the recipes below if you have a glut of them.

BORSCH SOUP
CARAMELISED BEETROOT

Pests and Diseases
Beetroot is relatively free from pests and diseases (aside from birds at the seedling stage), but the following list will help should any trouble arise.

Disease / Pest	Symptoms
Mangold Flies (Beet Leaf Miner)	Leaves with light brown blisters. The leaves turn completely brown and fall off. Growth is stunted.
Swift Moth	This is a root problem and may not be clearly seen at first. The plants look unhealthy, and growth is stunted. No obvious leaf damage.
Rust	Slightly raised round spots on the underside of the leaves. The spots are rust coloured (browny-red).
Aphids	Leaves curl and new shoots are distorted

Container Growing Beetroot
Choose the largest container possible - at least 30cm (1ft) in diameter. For drainage, fill the bottom with stones or the like, then cover with potting compost to about 5cm (2in) from the rim. Scatter the seeds over the surface and lightly cover with more potting compost - water well.

As the seeds develop, thin them so that there are about 6 plants for a 30cm (1ft) diameter pot (more if the pot is larger). From then on treat them as described throughout this article. Good luck!

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