150 seed per packet

WHEN TO SOW March to May. WHERE TO SOW Sow thinly in shallow drills 2cm deep with 30cm between rows. WHAT TO DO NEXT Thin the seedlings gradually as they grow to an eventual spacing of 15cm. Do not transplant. MATURITY June onwards. HANDY TIP Can be sown in early March in a cold frame or under cloches for an earlier crop. Not out of place in a flower garden with its pretty foliage.

Easy to grow and much more tasty than fresh shop bought beetroot. It should be harvested just at the right time when the size of a tennis ball. Sow the seeds thinly from April to June in drills 2cm deep with 30cm between rows. Is a good idea to sow part rows at weekly intervals to get a succession of roots. Some varieties can be sown earlier under cloches. Thin seedings to 10cm between plants, keep weed free and water regularly. Loosen roots with a fork and pull gently, twist off the leaves about 4-5cm form the crown, do not cut or damage rhe skin as this will result in bleeding during cooking with a loss of colour and flavour. Wash in cold water and cook in boling water for 1-2 hours. Rub off the skin when cool.