Though Cylindra heirloom beets hail from Denmark, beets seem to have originated in the Mediterrenean region, where people grew them for thousands of years. Later, beets grew in Germany and Holland and were used as cattle fodder; they were later imported to England for this purpose, but the poor began to raise them for an affordable food source. American colonists later brought them to the New World, where they became a commonly enjoyed food both for their roots and their greens. According to historians, George Washington experimented with beets, cross-pollinating them to create new varieties.
Sowing: Direct sow seeds outside 4 weeks before the last expected frost. Soften the seeds by soaking them in water for 2 hours, then plant in full sun and well drained soil. Sow them 1″ deep and 1″ apart in rows 1-2′ apart. Tamp down the earth above the seeds to ensure good contact with the soil, and germination should take place in 5-15 days. Add compost or other organic matter for healthy growth. For companion planting benefits, plant beets with bush beans, onions, or members of the cabbage family; avoid planting them near pole beans.
Growing: Since each beet “seed” holds up to 8 actual seeds, the seedlings will need to be thinned to 3″ apart. The uprooted plants do well as a second crop, as transplanting them will set them about 2 weeks behind the original plants. Take care not to bruise the seedlings when weeding. They love cool weather, and can survive temperatures down to 25F.
Harvesting: Beets can be harvested any time after they reach a size of 1″ in diameter, usually after about two months of growth. For best taste and tenderness, do not allow beets to grow over 3″ in diameter. After pulling them, twist off the tops about 1″ up the stem to prevent the beets from bleeding.
Seed Saving: Since beets are wind pollinated, be sure to separate them from other varieties of chard and beet by at least two miles to preserve genetic purity. Beet plants must weather the winter in order to produce seed. In warmer climates, simply mulch the plants. In cooler climates, dig up the roots and store them in sand, without the roots touching each other, in a cool and humid location – plant them again in early spring. The plants will soon go to seed in the spring; wait until the seed heads are fully grown and dry before removing them. The seeds will readily come off the stems after they are completely dry. Store the seed in a cool, dry place for up to five years.
Latin Name: Beta vulgaris
Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Cool Season
USDA Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Seeds per Ounce: 1,200
Planting Method: Direct Sow
Sunlight: Full Sun