Beets: A Root Vegetable Packed with Nutrients

Learn how to grow beets, explore their types, and discover the health benefits of this nutritious root vegetable with our comprehensive guide

Beets, or beetroot, are a colorful, nutritious root vegetable that adds both vibrancy and health benefits to your garden and plate. With their rich, earthy flavor, beets are enjoyed in various culinary dishes and are a powerhouse of nutrients. Whether you grow them for their edible roots or their nutritious greens, beets are an easy-to-grow crop that offers a range of uses. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about beets, from their history and types to growing tips and health benefits.

Beets are versatile root vegetables that thrive in cool-season gardens. Known for their deep red or purple color, beets offer a unique, earthy flavor that can enhance a variety of dishes. In addition to their delicious taste, beets are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Beets can be eaten raw, roasted, pickled, or juiced, and their greens are also edible, making them a two-for-one crop for your garden.

History and Origin

Beets have been cultivated for thousands of years, with origins dating back to the ancient Mediterranean region. The wild ancestor of the beet, known as Beta vulgaris, was originally grown for its leafy greens, not its roots. Over time, selective breeding focused on enlarging the root, resulting in the familiar red beetroot we know today. Ancient Romans and Greeks used beets both as food and for medicinal purposes, particularly for their ability to treat ailments like digestive issues.

Appearance and Characteristics

Beets have a round or cylindrical shape with a deep, vibrant color. The most common variety is the red beet, though there are also golden, white, and striped varieties, such as the Chioggia beet. The roots grow underground, while the beet greens (leaves) sprout above the soil and are often used in salads or cooked as greens. The stems are typically green or red, depending on the variety.

Types of Beets

Beets come in a variety of types, each with its own unique flavor and appearance. Here are some of the most popular types of beets:

Type	Description
Red Beets	Classic, earthy flavor and vibrant red color.
Golden Beets	Milder flavor and bright golden-yellow color.
Chioggia Beets	Known for their striking red and white striped pattern.
Bull’s Blood Beets	Dark red variety with very tender, sweet flavor.
White Beets	Less common, with a pale color and milder taste.

Nutritional Information

Beets are not only colorful but also rich in nutrients. Here's the nutritional breakdown per 1 cup (about 136g) of cooked, sliced beets:

Nutrient	Amount per 1 Cup (about 136g)
Calories	59 kcal
Protein	2g
Carbohydrates	13g
Fiber	3.8g
Fat	0.2g
Iron	1.1mg
Folate	136mcg
Magnesium	37mg
Potassium	442mg

Cultivation and Care Tips

Beets are best grown in cool weather, typically planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Here are a few tips to successfully grow beets:

• Soil: Beets prefer loose, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. They don’t grow well in compacted soil, so ensure the soil is aerated and free of rocks.
• Planting: Sow beet seeds about 1 to 1.5 inches deep, 2 to 3 inches apart, in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Beets need full sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.
• Watering: Beets need consistent moisture, especially during their early growth stages. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Thinning: Thin the seedlings once they’re a few inches tall to give them space to grow. Ideally, thin to about 3 inches apart to allow each plant to develop properly.
• Temperature: Beets grow best in cooler temperatures, typically between 50°F and 75°F (10°C and 24°C). They are frost-tolerant and can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.

Interesting Facts

• Beets are rich in antioxidants, particularly betalains, which give them their vibrant color.
• The beet plant is actually a biennial, but it’s typically grown as an annual.
• Beets are one of the few vegetables that provide a natural source of folate and betaine, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• In some cultures, beets are used in traditional medicine to treat conditions like anemia due to their high iron content.

FAQs

How long does it take to grow beets?

Beets typically take 50 to 70 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Can beets be grown in containers?

Yes, beets can be grown in containers, provided the container is at least 8 to 10 inches deep to accommodate the root system.

Can I eat beet greens?

Yes! Beet greens are edible and can be used in salads, stir-fries, or cooked like spinach. They are high in vitamins A and K.

How do I store beets?

Fresh beets should be stored in a cool, dry place. Beet greens should be separated from the roots and stored in the refrigerator to prevent wilting. Cooked beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What are some ways to cook beets?

Beets can be roasted, boiled, steamed, or even eaten raw in salads. Roasting enhances their sweetness, while boiling softens them for a smoother texture.

Beets are a nutritious, colorful addition to any garden, offering a wealth of health benefits and culinary possibilities. With their versatility, they can be grown easily in a variety of climates and are an excellent crop for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Whether you’re growing red beets, golden beets, or more unusual varieties like Chioggia, beets are a rewarding vegetable to include in your garden this season.

If you're ready to start growing beets in your garden, find high-quality beet seeds here.