Beets

Beets

Beets (Beta vulgaris) are a root vegetable in the family Amaranthaceae. They are known for their edible taproot and leafy greens, both of which are nutritious and versatile in cooking. Beets are native to the Mediterranean region but are now cultivated worldwide.

Starting Beet Plants

To start beet plants:

1. Sow seeds directly outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost date in your area for spring planting, or 6-8 weeks before the first frost date for fall planting
2. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in rows
3. Keep soil moist but not soggy
4. Thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart when they are about 2 inches tall

Beets are not typically started indoors as they do not transplant well due to their delicate taproot.

Harvesting Beets

Beets are typically ready to harvest 50-70 days after sowing, depending on the variety. To harvest:

• For baby beets, harvest when the roots are about 1-2 inches in diameter
• For mature beets, harvest when the roots are about 3-4 inches in diameter
• Gently loosen the soil around the beet with a fork or trowel and pull the root from the soil
• Cut off the greens, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached to prevent bleeding

Beets are a single-harvest crop, meaning they do not continue to produce after the initial harvest. However, you can enjoy the greens while waiting for the roots to mature.

Saving Beet Seeds

To save seeds from beets:

1. Leave some beets in the ground to overwinter and produce flowers the following spring
2. Allow the flowers to mature into seed pods, which will turn brown and dry
3. Cut the seed pods when they are fully mature and dry
4. Crush the pods to release the seeds
5. Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place

Common Beet Varieties

Some commonly grown beet varieties include:

• Detroit Dark Red: Round, deep red roots with a sweet flavor
• Chioggia: Striped red and white roots with a mild, slightly peppery flavor
• Golden Beets: Round, golden-yellow roots with a sweet, less earthy flavor than red beets
• Bull's Blood: Deep red roots and leaves, often grown for both the roots and greens

Uses as Food

Beets are a versatile ingredient in many dishes:

• Roasted, steamed, or boiled and served as a side dish
• Grated raw and added to salads
• Pickled for use as a condiment or side dish
• Used in soups, stews, and casseroles
• Juiced or blended into smoothies
• Used as a natural food coloring
• Beet greens can also be cooked and used in a manner similar to chard or spinach.

Beets are known for their nutritional value, being high in folate, manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. They also contain betalains, which are antioxidants with potential health benefits.