Beet - Beta vulgaris (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Beet

Also known as: Sugar beet, Beetroot

The beet (Beta vulgaris) provides a variety of uses for food products and garden growth. The roots are commonly consumed as nutrient-rich vegetables, the body of the sugar beet is used to make table sugar, and the leaves are harvested as a separate vegetable: chard. In 18th-Century Silesia, an area that is now part of Poland, the first-ever beet sugar extraction plant was created by a royal decree from the king.

Scientific classification

Species

Beet (Beta vulgaris)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1.2 m

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

Green, Red, Yellow, Variegated, Purple, Brown

Leaf Color

Red, Yellow, Purple

Fruit Color

Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Beet

Distribution of Beet

Distribution Map

Beet is native to most countries in Europe, North Africa and parts of West Asia. From that simple origin, beet is now widely grown as a vegetable worldwide. In Britain this plant is still found and harvested in its native form.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal cliffs, stony, sandy beaches, salt marshes or coastal grasslands, ruderal or disturbed places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Beet (Beta vulgaris) is a very widespread vegetable grown for its edible taproot. The plant has little real ornamental appeal, although its green leaves with red veining are attractive, so it is best suited to vegetable gardens. Beet grows well with chard, lettuce, cauliflower, and cabbage in vegetable gardens.

Symbolism

Love, blood, the heart

Name Story

Beet: Betalains gave Beta vulgaris its red color. In the 19th century, the red beet juice which is rich in Rose Betalains was used by women for cheeks and lips. This is inspired by the legend saying, "red as beet".

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Beet, including the following common varieties :

Beet 'Boltardy'Beet 'Solo'Beet 'Boldor'

Care Guide for Beet

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from temperate coastal regions, beet thrives in consistent moisture and requires watering twice a week. It is not drought-tolerant and benefits from regular rainfall during its growing season, mirroring its native habitat conditions for optimal growth.

Fertilize: Fertilize beet using a high nitrogen fertilizer at 2-3 lbs per 100 square feet for vibrant foliage and root growth. Feed monthly during growth; reduce in late season. Ensure even soil application and avoid foliage contact. Balance fertilization with beet's life cycle for optimal yields.

Pruning: Beet thrives with minimal pruning, ideally in early to late spring. Remove damaged leaves for better air circulation and thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart for healthier roots. Regular pruning enhances yield quality and overall health. Consult university extension services for more pruning details.

Propagation: Beet is propagated by sowing seeds in spring, requiring moderate care. Germination success is marked by seedling emergence, necessitating consistent soil moisture and temperature for optimal growth.

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Images of Beet

Distribution of Beet

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for Beet

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