Grow Beets Easily for Health and Flavor Boost

By Blake Jackson

University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein notes that while often overlooked, beets are gaining popularity due to their health benefits. Humans have consumed beets for over 5,000 years, initially valuing only their leaves.

"It was not until the second or third century A.D. that cooking and eating beetroots was described in the literature," Trinklein said, referring to the development of fleshy roots.

European beets in the 14th century resembled carrots more than the modern spherical shape, which likely emerged in the 16th or 17th century but took centuries to become a staple.

Even historical figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson cultivated beets. Today, seed catalogs boast over a dozen varieties in various colors.

The distinct earthy flavor, which divides opinions, comes from geosmin, the same compound causing the "muddy" taste in some fish. "The human nose can detect geosmin when only 5 parts per trillion are present," Trinklein explained.

Nutritionally, beets are impressive. A cup of cooked beets contains only 75 calories and is rich in fiber, folate, and vitamins A and K, along with manganese, copper, and potassium.

Betalains present in beets offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. Beet juice is also marketed as a natural energy booster due to dietary nitrates, which convert to nitric oxide, potentially lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow and stamina.

Trinklein emphasizes that beets are easy to grow. This cool-season crop thrives in full sun and well-drained, even low-fertility soil. Planting should occur early in spring. Sow seeds 3/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.

Thin seedlings after emergence. Harvest when roots are an inch or larger in diameter, as "new" beets grown in cooler weather often have better flavor and color.

Mature beets store well for up to six months in cool, humid conditions after removing the tops. For ambitious gardeners, the record for the heaviest beet stands at 52.88 pounds, grown in England in 2019.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-johnbraid