Beetroot
Beta vulgaris
Deep, jewel-red, and earthy-sweet, beetroot is one of the most satisfying roots to pull from the ground. Eaten raw in salads, roasted until caramelised, or pickled in vinegar — its versatility in the kitchen matches its ease in the garden.
SowingDirect sow
Sunlight☀️ Full sun
Water💧💧 Moderate
Days to harvest60–90
Soil pH6.5–7.5
Spacing8cm × 30cm
Planting Calendar
🌏 Adjusted for southern hemisphere seasons.
Sow indoorsSow outdoorsTransplantHarvest
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sowing
Each beetroot "seed" is actually a cluster of 2–3 seeds, so even careful sowing will require thinning. Sow 3cm deep in rows 30cm apart. Sow in succession every 3–4 weeks from March to July for continuous cropping.Thinning
Thin to 8cm apart when seedlings are large enough to handle. The thinnings are edible as micro-salad greens.Watering
Consistent watering is important — erratic wet and dry spells cause the roots to split. Mulching helps retain moisture.Soil: Well-drained, stone-free soil. Avoid freshly manured ground.