Beetroot is one of the most rewarding crops to grow on an allotment. It’s quick to mature, colourful on the plate, and easy to grow from seed with minimal fuss. Whether you prefer classic deep red or golden varieties, this guide explains how to grow healthy beetroot and get sweet, tender roots every time.
Quick Facts
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| When to Sow | March to July |
| Germination Time | 7–10 days |
| Time to Harvest | 8–12 weeks |
| Ideal Soil | Light, fertile, and free-draining |
| Position | Full sun or partial shade |
| Spacing | 10cm apart, 30cm between rows |
Preparing the Soil
Beetroot prefers light, well-drained soil that’s free of stones. Heavy clay soils can cause misshapen roots, so improve texture by adding compost or sand.
Avoid freshly manured ground — it can lead to excessive leafy growth. Instead, dig in well-rotted organic matter the season before sowing.
A pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is ideal.
Sowing the Seeds
Sow beetroot seeds directly into the soil from March to July once it’s warmed. Create shallow drills 2cm deep and 30cm apart.
Each beetroot seed cluster can produce several seedlings, so thin them to 10cm apart once they’re large enough to handle.
For a continuous harvest, sow a new row every 3–4 weeks until mid-summer.
Watering and Feeding
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
Uneven watering can cause roots to split or become woody.
Beetroot isn’t a heavy feeder, but a balanced fertiliser or seaweed feed applied once or twice during the growing season helps promote strong growth and vibrant colour.
Thinning and Maintenance
When seedlings are around 5cm tall, thin them out to leave the strongest plants spaced about 10cm apart.
The thinnings can be eaten as baby leaves in salads.
Weed regularly and gently around plants to avoid disturbing shallow roots.
Harvesting and Storage
Beetroot is ready to harvest when roots are roughly the size of a golf ball to a tennis ball.
Loosen the soil gently with a fork and twist off the leaves (rather than cutting) to prevent the roots from bleeding colour.
Store in a cool, dark place for up to three months, or boil and pickle for longer preservation.
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Forked roots | Stony or freshly manured soil | Use fine, stone-free soil |
| Woody texture | Left too long before harvesting | Pick when young and tender |
| Flea beetle damage | Tiny black beetles feeding on leaves | Use mesh covers or spray with soapy water |
| Poor germination | Cold, wet soil | Wait for soil to warm before sowing |
Companion Planting Tips
Beetroot grows well alongside onions, lettuce, and brassicas. Avoid planting near runner beans or field beans, which can compete for nutrients.
Using the Allotment Planner Tool
Plan your beetroot rows within the Allotment Planner tool to visualise spacing and rotation.
It’s especially useful for ensuring you don’t plant root crops like carrots or beetroot in the same area consecutively, helping prevent soil fatigue.
FAQs
When should I plant beetroot?
From March once the soil has warmed up, through to mid-summer for late crops.
Do I need to thin beetroot seedlings?
Yes — each seed produces several seedlings, so thinning ensures even root size.
How long does beetroot take to grow?
Around 8–12 weeks from sowing, depending on the variety and weather.
Can I eat beetroot leaves?
Yes — young leaves are delicious in salads or cooked like spinach.
What are the best beetroot varieties to grow?
‘Boltardy’ is a reliable all-rounder, while ‘Chioggia’ (striped) and ‘Golden Beet’ add colour and sweetness.