Beetroot

Orange_King

Have a different variety of beetroot this year and just need to check about when they can be lifted. Some of them are now starting to flower and the shoots are rather tall and gangly. Do I let them flower and then the shoots die off before lifting?

Last year I just had the baby beetroot which popped up to the surface.

:beer:

Lotus-eater

I don't think I've ever had beetroot flower, not even in massive droughts (like now )

I would hazard a guess that they won't grow anymore and will start to go tough. Try eating one now and see how they are, might be better to lift all the flowering ones and sow again.

Orange_King

Thanks. There was no visible sign of anything on the surface so may be dealing with marbles! I'll check it out later!

Lotus-eater

Just remembered, Bolthardy does as the name says, it won't bolt very easily. Maybe look for that seed next year.
What variety have you grown out of interest?

Orange_King

I'll get back to you on that one when I check the packet later on!

Dustykitten

Are these beets you sowed last year. I only grow beet for the salad leaves. Mine have gone to seed now so I've lifted and composted them today. I think they would be woody as they are last year's plants which have over wintered.

Orange_King

They were Mrs Fothergill's Bolthardy! I planted the seeds in March time and sureenough they were rather stunted looking and are now in the compost!