Growing beet greens is surprisingly easy! You can even regrow them from scraps from your kitchen. Here's how:
Method 1: Regrowing from Beetroot Tops
This method uses the leafy tops of beets you've already purchased.
-
Prepare the Beetroot Tops: Trim the greens off your beetroot, leaving at least half an inch of stem attached. This stem is crucial for regrowth.
-
Planting:
- In Soil: Plant the trimmed beetroot tops in a container with potting soil. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy.
- In Water: Alternatively, place the beetroot tops in a shallow dish filled with water, ensuring the stems are submerged. Change the water every day to prevent bacterial growth.
-
Growth and Care: Place the container or dish in a sunny location. Water regularly, keeping the soil or water consistently moist. Within a week or two, you should see new growth.
Method 2: Sowing Beet Seeds (For a Larger Harvest)
For a larger and more consistent harvest, it's best to start from seed:
-
Seed Selection: Choose beet seeds from a reputable supplier. Many varieties are suitable for growing greens.
-
Sowing: Sow seeds directly into well-prepared soil in a sunny location. Follow the instructions on the seed packet for spacing and depth.
-
Germination and Care: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing once they've established themselves. Regular watering and occasional fertilization will promote healthy growth.
Harvesting Your Beet Greens
Once the beet greens have grown to a desirable size, harvest them by cutting the leaves about an inch above the crown. This encourages further growth. Enjoy your fresh, homegrown beet greens in salads, smoothies, or as a side dish!
