Beetroot | Table Beet |Sugar Beet |Chukandar | Vegetable Seeds for Home Garden | Farming | Open Pollinated | 100% Organic | Non Gmo

Beetroots, also known simply as beets, are nutritious root vegetables valued for their earthy flavor, vibrant color, and culinary versatility. Here's a brief description of beetroots along with steps on how to grow them:

### Brief Description

- Root Vegetable : Beetroots belong to the Beta vulgaris species and are grown for their edible taproots, which are typically deep red-purple in color but can also be golden or white.
- Nutritional Benefits : Beetroots are rich in vitamins (especially vitamin C and folate), minerals (such as potassium and manganese), fiber, and antioxidants. They are known for their potential health benefits, including improved heart health, digestion, and exercise performance.
- Culinary Uses : Beetroots can be consumed raw, cooked, or pickled. They are commonly used in salads, soups, stews, and as a side dish. Beet greens, the leafy tops of the plant, are also edible and can be cooked similarly to other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard.

### How to Grow Beetroots

1. Choose the Right Location :
- Beetroots prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 and full sun exposure. They can tolerate partial shade but may produce smaller roots.
- Select a location with loose, friable soil rich in organic matter.

2. Sow Seeds :
- Directly sow beetroot seeds into the soil in early spring, once the soil temperature reaches at least 50°F (10°C). For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2 to 3 weeks until late spring.
- Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep and space them 2 to 4 inches apart in rows spaced 12 to 18 inches apart.

3. Watering :
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth, especially during dry periods.
- Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases and foliar damage.

4. Thinning :
- Once the seedlings have emerged and developed their first true leaves, thin them to the desired spacing. Thin beetroot seedlings to 3 to 4 inches apart to allow adequate space for root development.

5. Fertilization :
- Beetroots are not heavy feeders but benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost applied before planting. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they may promote leafy growth at the expense of root development.

6. Weed Control :
- Keep the planting area free of weeds, which can compete with beetroot plants for nutrients, water, and space. Mulching can help suppress weed growth and conserve soil moisture.

7. Harvesting :
- Beetroots are ready for harvest 7 to 10 weeks after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvest when the roots are tender and reach the desired size, typically 1 to 3 inches in diameter.
- To harvest, gently loosen the soil around the base of the plant and pull the beetroots out by hand. Cut off the tops, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached to the root.

8. Post-Harvest Handling :
- Wash harvested beetroots to remove excess soil but avoid scrubbing or damaging the skin, as this can lead to spoilage during storage.
- Store beetroots in a cool, dark place with high humidity to prevent wilting and prolong shelf life. Beet greens can be stored separately in the refrigerator and used within a few days.

By following these steps and providing proper care, you can grow your own supply of fresh, nutritious beetroots in your garden or allotment. Enjoy them raw, cooked, or pickled, and experiment with different culinary preparations to experience their delicious flavor and versatility.