Beetroot
A versatile and nutritious root vegetable, beetroot is known for its vibrant colour and earthy-sweet flavour. Easy to grow and quick to mature, it's a great choice for beginners.
Beetroot seeds
£1.99 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
April – July, direct outdoors once soil has warmed. For an early crop, sow indoors in modules in March.
Plant out
Module-raised plants can be planted out in April-May. Thin direct-sown seedlings to final spacing.
Harvest
June – October, when roots are 2.5-7.5cm (1-3 inches) in diameter
Conditions
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Regular and consistent watering is key for tender roots
Soil
Fertile, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–7.0
Spacing
10-15cm between plants, 30cm between rows
Containers
Excellent in pots or grow bags (at least 20cm deep)
Indoors
Can be started indoors in modules for an early crop, then transplanted
Care and harvest
Feeding
Not usually necessary in good soil; avoid high nitrogen feeds as this encourages leafy growth over root development
Pruning
None required, though leaves can be harvested young for salads
Harvesting
Gently twist or pull up when roots reach desired size. Don't leave in the ground too long or they become woody.
Storage
Store in a cool, dark, frost-free place for several months, or pickle/freeze
Good companions: Onions, Lettuce, Brassicas