Beetroot

Description

Soil Preparation

• Type: Loose, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter.

• pH: 6.0–7.5 is ideal.

• Preparation: Till the soil deeply and add compost or well-rotted manure.

2. Sowing Seeds

• Timing:

  • In temperate regions, sow in early spring.

  • In tropical/subtropical areas, grow during cooler months (e.g., October to February).

• Spacing:

  • Sow seeds 1–2 cm deep.

  • Space rows 30–45 cm apart, with 5–10 cm between plants after thinning.

3. Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

• Avoid water stress as it can cause root cracking or poor flavor.

4. Thinning

• Thin seedlings once they are a few cm tall to prevent overcrowding, ensuring proper root development.

5. Fertilization

• Use a balanced NPK fertilizer.

• Avoid excessive nitrogen which leads to leafy growth over root development.

6. Pest & Disease Control

• Common pests: Aphids, leaf miners, and beet webworms.

• Diseases: Downy mildew, Cercospora leaf spot.

• Use organic pesticides or neem oil, and rotate crops to prevent soil-borne diseases.

7. Harvesting

• Time: 8–10 weeks after sowing.

• Signs: Roots about the size of a tennis ball (5–7 cm diameter).

• Pull carefully to avoid damaging roots.