The Seed Program
Growing Hints
This is one of the many growing hints that are available as a
bonus with a registered copy of The Seed Program.
Beets
Beets are an easy to grow, productive crop that is bothered by
few insects or diseases. Beets are usually planted directly out
in the garden very early in spring. They perform best in cool
weather, sometimes getting tough in the heat of summer.
For fastest germination, soak the seeds in water for several
hours before planting. The beet "seed" is actually a
small fruit that contains several seeds. This makes it essential
to thin the plants, as a number of plants will often sprout very
close together. The thinned plants can sometimes be transplanted
successfully, but it is tempting to harvest the thinnings for
the leaves. The leaves of young beet plants are a mild and delicious
salad green.
Leaf miners can sometimes infest beets, leaving whitish trails
and damaging the leaves. The extent of the problem is seldom great,
and usually only a nuisance if the leaves are to be harvested.
Covering the plants with a floating row cover will keep the pests
out. Row covers can be left on indefinitely, as there is no need
for beets to be pollinated.
For more crops, more complete gardening information, a garden
journal and a planting schedule you can customize for your region,
purchase The Seed Program!
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