Beetroot Species
The taxonomy of the numerous wild and cultivated varieties of beets has a complicated history. Beta
vulgaris, a member of the Amaranthaceae family, has come to encompass cultivars that are grown for
their taproots, greens, and stalks, including Swiss chard, sugar beets, and conventional beets.
Beta vulgaris var. vulgaris is the variety specifically grown for its taproots, also known as beetroots. The
root portion of the plant is usually round or acorn-shaped with deep red or purple flesh. Other varieties
exist that adorn white stripes and/or a golden yellow or orange color. Beetroots have many nutritional
properties, including containing high amounts of potassium, folic acid, manganese, complex B vitamins
and fiber. On top of that, beets contain a compound called glycine betaine, which lowers the risk of
coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular diseases. The greens and stalks are edible and
contain vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron.
Growing Beta vulgaris var. vulgaris
50 to 70 days to maturity
Height – Up to 6 inches
Plant Spacing – 2 to 4 inches
Row Spacing – 12 to 18 inches
Depth – ½ inch
Sun Exposure – Full Sun
Before sowing, break up the soil to a depth of 10 inches, working in some organic mulch. Beets prefer
sandy to loamy soils with a PH of 7.0, well-drained, and in an area with full to moderate sunlight.
Beet seeds have a hard shell, making germination difficult at times. Soak seeds for up to 3 hours before
sowing. Sow seeds 8 weeks before fall frost.
Beet seeds are multigerm, meaning each seed contains a cluster of embryos, each embryo able to
produce its own plant. This makes thinning the plants imperative once they begin to poke through the
soil.
Beetroots require a substantial amount of phosphorus in order to reach a healthy size. Often,
phosphorous is added by dusting it along the rows.
Between 50 and 70 days, the beet plant should grow up to 6 inches tall. Harvest before the plant
becomes any taller as it will result in bitter flavor. Early harvest is popular among those who value the
sweetness of baby beet greens. Grab the plant at the base of the stalk and gently pull the round root out
of the ground and brush the excess soil away.
Proper storage requires an area that is dark and cool, preferably a cellar. After the beets have been
thoroughly cleaned, cover an area with sand or sawdust and place beets. Keep temperature at a cold 32
degrees Fahrenheit and keep area moist with 85 to 90 percent humidity.