Starting your first beets from seeds can seem like a challenging and confusing prospect, but it's actually quite simple. Follow our growing guide to have beautiful beetroot in your garden!
Soil
What soil is good for Beetroot?
Rich soil, which is light and well draining. Plenty of added compost to retain moisture.
Position
How much sun does Beetroot need?
Prefers full sun, will tolerate partial sun or afternoon shade.
Frost Tolerant
Is Beetroot frost tolerant?
Will tolerate light frost.
Spacing
How much space does Beetroot need?
Minimum 15cm apart
Planting
When should I plant Beetroot?
Beets are cool season crops. Usually planted in autumn, depending on your climate.
You can succession plant throughout the year for a continuous crop as long as temperatures stay below 25°C (77°F).
Feeding
What do I feed Beetroot?
Work in an organic fertiliser into the soil before planting, water regularly and mulch the soil around the beets to retain moisture.
Harvesting
When can I harvest Beetroot?
You will generally see the beetroot bulb come up just above the surface of the soil, when it is close to, or ready for harvest. Harvest anywhere between a golf ball to tennis ball size. Beetroot leaves and stems are also edible.
Pests
What pests does Beetroot get?
Aphids, Slug, Snail, Darkling Beetle, Leafminer, Leafhopper
Diseases
What diseases does Beetroot get?
Bacterial Blight, Scab, Curly Top Disease, Beet Western Yellow Virus, Leaf Spot, Damping-off, Downy Mildew, Fusarium Yellows and Root Rot, Powdery Mildew, Beet Cyst Nematode, Root Knot Nematode
Notes
Is there anything else I need to know about Beetroot?
Water frequently and consistently throughout the growing season.
Cool Season Crops
Easy To Grow
Frost Tolerant
Shade Tolerant