How to Harvest Beets: Tips for Optimal Yield!
How to Harvest Beets?
To harvest beets, start by checking the seed packet for the recommended “days to maturity” to ensure they have been growing for enough time.
Examine the beet greens to gauge the size of the roots – if they are large and lush, the beets are likely ready to harvest.
If unsure, expose the top 1/3 of the roots and if they are the size of a golf ball or larger, they’re ready to be harvested.
Carefully cut off the greens, leaving 1 inch of stalks attached to the roots to prolong their freshness.
Rinse and dry the beet roots before storing them in a perforated bag in the crisper drawer for 1 to 2 weeks.
Beets can also be pickled or canned for longer storage.
If storing in a root cellar or cool place, do not wash them after harvesting.
Lay them in a single layer in a cool, dry place for a few days, and then brush away dried dirt and debris on the skins.
For longer storage, pack beets in crates or containers filled with sand or sawdust.
Beets can be harvested at different sizes, depending on personal preference.
Baby/midsized beets can be harvested when they are 1-2 inches in diameter, while larger beets can be harvested when they are up to 6 inches in diameter.
Beet leaves can be harvested when they are 4-6 inches tall, with larger leaves used in salads and stir-fries.
To keep the plant healthy, only take 2 leaves from each plant, leaving at least 1 inch on the root.
Key Points:
- Check the “days to maturity” on the seed packet before harvesting beets
- Examine the size of the beet greens to determine if the roots are ready to harvest
- If unsure, expose the top 1/3 of the roots and check if they are the size of a golf ball or larger
- Cut off the greens, leaving 1 inch of stalks attached to the roots
- Rinse and dry the beet roots before storing them in a perforated bag in the crisper drawer
- Beets can be pickled, canned, or stored in a root cellar or cool place
Did You Know?
1. The vibrant red color of beets is not only present on the outside but also on the inside! When beets are sliced open, you’ll discover that not only the flesh, but also the juice, stains everything it comes in contact with.
2. Beets were historically used as a natural dye for fabrics in the past. Ancient Romans, for instance, would use beet juice to dye their clothes a rich purple color.
3. Want to know why beets sometimes taste so earthy? It’s because they contain a compound called geosmin, which is also responsible for the distinctive smell that comes after rainfall. This compound can sometimes make beets taste like they’ve been freshly plucked from the soil.
4. Beets were actually used as a natural source of sugar before cane sugar became widely accessible. In the 19th century, Napoleon Bonaparte encouraged beet sugar production in France to reduce the country’s reliance on imported cane sugar.
5. Don’t throw away those beet greens! They are not only edible, but they are packed with nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber. So, next time you harvest beets, remember to save the leafy greens for a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals.
Optimal Timing For Harvesting Beets
Beets are an ideal crop for beginning gardeners due to their fast-growing and cold-hardy nature. They are cool-season crops and are commonly grown in spring and autumn gardens. When grown from seed, beet roots can be harvested within 50 to 70 days. However, it’s important to note that the growth rate can be influenced by various factors, including weather conditions.
During autumn, beets can tolerate light frosts, which actually enhance their flavor and sweetness. However, it’s crucial to harvest them before the ground freezes completely. For those who prefer tender, baby beets, they can be harvested when they reach the size of a golf ball with soft skin. On the other hand, fully matured beets are usually harvested when they are the size of a tennis ball with tougher skin, making them more suitable for winter storage.
Different Stages Of Beet Growth For Harvesting
Beet greens can be harvested along with the roots, adding to the versatility of this crop. They can be used in salads, sautés, and other culinary recipes. To determine if the beets are ready for harvest, check the “days to maturity” information on the seed packet. Another way to assess their readiness is by examining the condition of the beet greens. If the greens are large and lush, it indicates that the roots are filling out nicely. However, if the greens are wilting, it may suggest that the beets have passed their prime.
If there is uncertainty about the readiness of the roots, you can expose the top 1/3 of the beet roots. If they are the size of a golf ball or larger, it is an indication that they are ready for harvest. It is crucial to handle the harvesting process with care to avoid damaging the roots.
The Importance Of Proper Harvesting Techniques For Beets
Proper harvesting techniques are essential to ensure the optimal yield of beets. It is important to cut off the greens immediately after harvesting, leaving about 1 inch of stalks attached to the roots. This helps the roots last longer and prevents bleeding during storage. After harvesting, it is recommended to rinse and dry the fresh beet roots before storage.
It is advisable to store beets in a perforated bag in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator for 1 to 2 weeks. For longer storage, beets can be pickled or canned. However, if beets are to be stored in a root cellar or cool place, it is recommended not to wash them after harvesting. Instead, they should be laid in a single layer in a cool, dry place for a few days. Any dried dirt and debris on the skins can be brushed away. For longer storage, beets can be packed in crates or containers filled with sand or sawdust.
Storage And Preservation Of Harvested Beets
Beets can be stored for up to five months in a root cellar or cool place where temperatures range between 32 and 40°F. It is crucial to create the optimal conditions for storing beets to ensure their longevity. Keep in mind that beets come in various colors, including purple, orange, yellow, white, and red with white rings. Beets can be harvested from early summer through mid-fall, depending on when they are planted.
To ensure a continuous harvest, it is recommended to stagger the sowing and vary the crop type. This allows for a steady supply of fresh beets throughout the growing season. Beets can be harvested at different sizes depending on culinary preferences. Baby or mid-sized beets, which are 1-2 inches in diameter, can be harvested for those who prefer tender roots. However, larger beets, up to 6 inches in diameter, are also suitable for harvesting.
Harvesting Beet Greens For Culinary Use
In addition to harvesting the roots, beet greens can also be used in various culinary preparations. Similar to spinach, larger beet leaves can be harvested and used in salads and stir-fries. However, it is important to only take 2 leaves from each plant in order to keep the plant healthy. When harvesting beet leaves, it is recommended to leave at least 1 inch on the root to ensure its continued growth.
There are several varieties of beets that are popular for their unique characteristics. Globe beet varieties such as Di Chioggia, Avenger, and Sangria are beloved for their flavor and range of colors. These varieties usually take around 8-10 weeks to mature, and they are ready to harvest when their above “shoulders” look full-sized and the roots are fully rounded out.
- Harvest both the roots and leaves for culinary preparations.
- Take only 2 leaves per plant to maintain plant health.
- Leave 1 inch on the root when harvesting beet leaves.
- Popular globe beet varieties: Di Chioggia, Avenger, Sangria.
- These varieties mature in 8-10 weeks.
- Harvest when above “shoulders” are full-sized and roots are rounded out.
Factors To Consider For Continuous Harvesting Of Beets
If one desires a continuous harvest of beets, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, staggered sowing is crucial to ensure a steady supply of fresh beets. Varying the crop type, such as planting different varieties with varying maturity dates, can also help achieve this goal. By doing so, one can enjoy a continuous harvest of beets throughout the growing season.
To summarize, harvesting beets requires attention to:
- Optimal timing
- Different stages of beet growth
- Proper techniques
- Storage and preservation methods
By doing so, gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest of beets and their greens, adding vibrant colors and flavors to their culinary creations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to harvest beets?
To optimize the beet harvest, it is essential to ensure that the soil is adequately loosened first. Once this is accomplished, the most effective approach is to firmly grasp the beet plant at the base of its greens and carefully pull upwards, gently lifting the beet from the soil. In cases where the soil is compacted or difficult to work with, utilizing a trowel to place it underneath a beet root and leveraging it upward while simultaneously pulling on the beet greens can facilitate a successful harvest. By employing these methods, the beets can be efficiently removed from the soil, promoting a smooth and efficient harvesting process.
How do I know if my beets are ready to harvest?
To determine if your beets are ready for harvest, gently remove the mulch or soil covering the tops of the beets. If the beets’ tops are at least an inch above the soil, it indicates that they are ready to be harvested. However, it is worth mentioning that you have the choice to harvest beets earlier, before they reach full maturity, to enjoy a sweeter taste. Keep in mind, though, that harvesting them earlier might result in a smaller yield compared to waiting longer.
What to do with beets after harvesting?
After harvesting beets, it is important to store them properly to ensure their longevity. One option is to store them in a cold, moist place with a temperature between 32°F and 40°F (0°C and 4°C) and a relative humidity of 95 percent. Another option is to keep them in the refrigerator by placing them in a perforated plastic bag in the vegetable crisper drawer. With either method, beets can remain fresh for up to three months, providing an excellent opportunity to explore various culinary uses such as pickling, roasting, or incorporating them into vibrant salads and soups. With their earthy flavor and vibrant hue, beets can add a delightful twist to your culinary creations.
How long is beet harvest?
The sugar beet harvest typically spans from October 1st and extends for a duration of 10-15 working days, with the actual timeline depending on the prevailing weather conditions. Throughout this period, farmers diligently work to gather the sugar beets from the fields, ensuring they are harvested at their peak freshness and quality.