Saturday 18 May 2013

ALL ABOUT - BEETROOT

I grow beetroot all year round in the cooler climate of Melbourne, although I have read that it is best to grow during September to April in my area.

Originally I liked to sow my seeds in punnets and then transfer out into the garden when they were large enough. With this method I used to lose half the seedlings, either to snails or poor transplant. This season I have had limited energy so have taken the 'lazy' approach  and just sprinkled seeds direct into my beds and I have found that this has been quite successful (although they are still in the early stages). I think 6-10 seeds sown every 3 or so week is enough if your family enjoys beetroot, sow a few more if you especially enjoy beetroot chips!

During summer we have a drip irrigation system and the rest of the year I allow the rain to water my garden, I don't find this affects the quality of the beetroot, even though they sometimes go days without a water. My soil is relatively free draining (I enjoy a no dig garden and allow the worms to do the digging for me) which the beetroot enjoy. I harvest my beetroot when the root starts to push up through the soil and when I can see the seed head forming at the base of the leaves.

My gardens are fed with compost twice a year and covered with a straw mulch which is spent from my chook sheds. When I have worm wee I also use this to feed my beds. I find this to be sufficient for beetroot's growing needs (and everything else in my garden).

The variety that is found in my garden is the diggers club heirloom mix. I love the spontaneous colours and being surprised by what I pull, although the leaves usually give it away!


8 comments:

  1. I only grew beetroot once several years ago, but it was, as you say, quite successful and undemanding. Do you think it would be too late to plant them now?

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    1. It is definitely not too late! I sowed some seeds several weeks ago and they are growing well (even in the cold snap in Melbourne). I also put another succession in a few days ago and will probably keep doing this all winter :D They are such a lovely vegetable and I have only started eating them over the last year (as I was only accustomed to the tinned variety).

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  2. I'm in the us and I love love love beets (we don't use the root at the end) I love them steamed with salt and butter or pickled. Your beets look amazing!

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    1. Haha that's funny because I don't use the leaves! I must try it :D

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  3. I grow cylindrical beetroot and really love the variety - the long shape makes them really easy to work with it the kitchen. I must do a spotlight on them.....

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    1. I will have to keep an eye out for that variety, it sounds interesting! A spotlight on them would be great! :D

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  4. Love a beet, the diggers mix sounds great, so many pretty colours

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    1. It is a great mix, the white ones are interesting as they don't look like beetroot, but the yellow red and red and white striped are beautiful!

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