Growing beetroot in the Southern Highlands of NSW can be a rewarding and enjoyable gardening experience. With its vibrant colours and sweet, earthy flavours, beetroot is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow beetroot successfully in this region.
1. Choosing the Right Variety
Select beetroot varieties that are well-suited to the climate of the Southern Highlands. Popular choices include:
- Detroit Dark Red: Known for its deep red colour and sweet flavour.
- Golden Beetroot: Offers a milder taste and a striking golden colour.
- Chioggia: Features concentric rings of red and white, adding visual appeal to dishes.
2. Ideal Season and Temperatures
Beetroot is a cool-season crop that thrives in moderate temperatures. In the Southern Highlands, the best time to plant beetroot is during the cooler months of early spring and autumn. Beetroot grows best when daytime temperatures range between 10-24°C.
3. Soil Preparation
Beetroot prefers well-drained, loose soil with a neutral pH (around 6.5-7.0). Prepare your garden bed by following these steps:
- Clear the Area: Remove weeds and debris from the planting area.
- Loosen the Soil: Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of about 30cm.
- Add Organic Matter: Incorporate well-rotted compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
4. Planting Beetroot
Timing is crucial for beetroot. In the Southern Highlands, you can plant beetroot from early spring to late summer. Here’s how to plant them:
- Sowing Seeds: Directly sow beetroot seeds into the prepared soil. Plant the seeds about 1-2cm deep and space them 10-15cm apart.
- Thinning: Once the seedlings are about 5cm tall, thin them out to ensure proper spacing. This helps each plant develop fully without competition for nutrients and space.
5. Watering and Feeding
Beetroot requires consistent moisture, especially during the germination and early growth stages. Follow these tips:
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Feeding: Beetroot benefits from a balanced fertiliser. Apply a general-purpose fertiliser at planting time and again midway through the growing season.
6. Pest and Disease Management
Beetroot is relatively resilient but can still fall prey to pests and diseases. Here’s how to manage them:
- Pests: Watch out for aphids, leaf miners, and slugs. Use organic pest control methods such as neem oil or introducing beneficial insects.
- Diseases: Prevent fungal diseases by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Remove any infected plants promptly.
7. Harvesting Beetroot
Beetroot is typically ready for harvest 8-10 weeks after planting. Here’s how to harvest and store them:
- Harvest Time: Harvest beetroot when they are about the size of a golf ball to a tennis ball. Larger roots can become woody and less flavourful.
- Harvest Method: Gently pull the beetroots from the soil, being careful not to damage the roots. Use a garden fork if the soil is compacted.
- Storage: Store beetroot in a cool, dark place. They can be kept in the refrigerator for several weeks. For longer storage, consider canning or pickling.
Growing beetroot in the Southern Highlands of NSW is a delightful endeavour that yields a versatile and nutritious vegetable. By choosing the right varieties, preparing the soil properly, and maintaining consistent care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious beetroots.
At home with Mrs E 