Growing beetroot from a beetroot involves using the seeds found within the root vegetable, not planting the root itself. Here's how:
Harvesting Beetroot Seeds
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Select Mature Beetroots: Choose fully mature beetroots from your garden or a reputable source. These will have the best chance of producing viable seeds.
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Allow Beetroots to Flower: Leave the mature beetroots in the ground over the winter. They will bolt (send up a flower stalk) in the spring. This flowering is crucial for seed production.
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Collect the Seed Pods: Once the flowers have faded, seed pods will develop. These pods contain the seeds. Allow the pods to mature fully on the plant until they are dry and brown before harvesting.
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Extract the Seeds: Carefully collect the seed pods and gently extract the small, dark seeds. You can rub the pods between your fingers to release the seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place until planting time.
Planting Beetroot Seeds
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Prepare the Soil: Beetroots prefer loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Prepare your garden bed by tilling or loosening the soil.
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Sow the Seeds: Sow the seeds directly into the prepared soil about 1 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. The provided video suggests planting rows 30 centimeters apart.
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Water Regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, particularly during germination.
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Thin Seedlings: Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to one plant per every 2-3 inches, ensuring enough space for the roots to grow.
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Weed Regularly: Keep the area weeded to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
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Harvest: Beetroots are ready to harvest approximately 60-75 days after planting, depending on the variety.
Note: The provided video excerpt mentions successfully germinated beet seeds ("These from my range of seeds...they germinated perfectly"). This highlights the importance of using high-quality seeds for successful growth.
