GROWING GUIDE - BEETS

Looking to grow beautiful, healthy beet in your garden? You've come to the right place! This comprehensive growing guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from planting to harvest.

QUICK FACTS

• Sun Requirements: And Well-Drained Soil
• Soil: Ph Of 6
• Suitable for Canadian growing conditions
• Follow package instructions for best results
• Contact T&T Seeds for personalized growing advice

BEETS PLANTING & CARE

Beets are a nutrient-rich root vegetable packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Both the roots and greens are edible, making them a versatile and easy-to-grow crop.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

• Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil. • Beets prefer a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 but tolerate slightly alkaline soil. • Till in aged compost or manure before planting for good nutrition. • Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages leafy tops instead of root development. • Sow seeds 1/2 in. deep in rows 18 in. apart when soil reaches 10°C. • Thin seedlings to 2-4 in. apart once plants emerge. • For continuous harvest, make successive plantings throughout summer.

WATERING & MULCHING

• Keep soil evenly moist to prevent tough, woody roots • Apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature • Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent cracking

FERTILIZING

Beets require phosphorus-rich soil for good germination and root development. If needed, supplement with a balanced fertilizer but avoid excessive nitrogen.

HARVEST

• Check size when roots begin to push above the soil • Ideal harvesting size is 2 in. in diameter for tender, sweet beets • Pull roots rather than digging to avoid damage • Leave 1 in. of stem to prevent “bleeding” when cooking

STORAGE

Store unwashed beets in a cool, dark place for several weeks. Greens can be used fresh in salads or cooked like spinach.

COMMON ISSUES & SOLUTIONS

Pests & Diseases Black cankers on roots? The soil may need boron. Apply 1 tbsp borax per 4L of water over 9 m² (100 sq. ft.)—do not overapply.

Cercospora leaf spot (purple-ringed lesions)? Rotate crops and remove infected leaves. Leaf miner maggots (blistered tunnels in leaves)?

Squish maggots inside leaves or use floating row covers to prevent egg-laying. Companion Planting: Good companions: Bush beans, brassicas, corn, garlic, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, mint. Avoid planting near: Pole beans.

READY TO START GROWING?

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