Bulls Blood Beet

Planting:

Sow seeds thinly 1⁄2-1 inch deep, in rows spaced 8-12 inches apart. Soil temperature should be 18-24 degrees C for optimal germination. Thin seedlings1 inch apart for greens and 3 inches apart for summer use of roots. Plant every two weeks, starting as early as soil can be worked until late June.

Growing:

Choose a full sun location. Beets require a light, well-drained, cool soil with pH between 6.5 and 6.8. Compost or well-rotted manure along with pure wood ashes, as a supply of additional potassium, should be mixed well into the soil prior to planting. Applying Boron after 4-6 weeks of growth will prevent internal browning, particularly in dry seasons. Keep well-watered as drought will result in tough or woody roots.

Harvest:

Young and tender beet leaves can be used as greens. Dig or pull roots when 2-3 inches in diameter or desired size.

Pests & Diseases:

Generally beets are bug free with the possible exception of the Spinach Leaf Miner. Control leaf spots (Cercospora) with a sulfur or copper fungicide at the recommended rates.

Companions:

Bush bean, cabbage family, corn, leek, lettuce, onion, radish.

Sowing Rate:

Approximately 350-600 seeds/package will plant 25-30 foot row. 2000 seeds/25g, 4-5kg/acre.

Growing Microgreens:

Sow seeds in a shallow tray of potting mix and cover lightly. About 8 to 9 grams of seed should be enough for an 11 inch x 21 inch tray. Keep the soil moist but not wet. Seedlings should be grown in full light to keep them from stretching.

Harvest:

Once seedlings have 1 –2 true leaves they are ready for harvest. This can range from 10-20 days depending on the growing conditions and the type of micro green. To harvest cut the seedlings off just above ground level with a sharp knife or scissors. The plants will not regrow, so discard the left over soil and start a new batch.

Pests:

Damping off can be a problem with microgreens. Be sure and use fresh potting mix with each batch, do not over water and allow air to circulate around the seedlings.