Early Wonder Beets are a popular variety of beetroot known for their fast growth and delicious taste. They’re a fantastic addition to any home garden, providing a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. But knowing when and how to harvest these beets can be a bit of a challenge for novice gardeners. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, ensuring you get the most out of your Early Wonder Beets.
Understanding Early Wonder Beets
Before we dive into the harvesting process, it’s important to understand what makes Early Wonder Beets unique. This variety of beetroot is known for its rapid growth, with most plants ready to harvest within 50 to 60 days of planting. They’re also known for their deep red color and sweet, earthy flavor.
Early Wonder Beets are a cool-season crop, meaning they prefer cooler temperatures and can even tolerate light frosts. This makes them an excellent choice for early spring or late fall planting. They’re also relatively easy to grow, making them a great choice for beginners.
When to Harvest Early Wonder Beets
One of the most common questions gardeners have about Early Wonder Beets is when to harvest them. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the size of the beetroot and the desired taste.
As a general rule, Early Wonder Beets are ready to harvest when they’re about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. At this size, they’re tender and sweet, making them perfect for salads and other fresh dishes. However, they can be harvested at any size, depending on your personal preference. Larger beets tend to be less tender and have a stronger flavor, but they’re still delicious when cooked.
It’s also important to consider the age of the plant. As mentioned earlier, most Early Wonder Beets are ready to harvest within 50 to 60 days of planting. However, this can vary depending on the growing conditions. If you’re unsure, it’s best to pull up one beet and taste it. If it’s tender and sweet, it’s ready to harvest. If not, give it a few more days.
How to Harvest Early Wonder Beets
Once you’ve determined that your Early Wonder Beets are ready to harvest, it’s time to get to work. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Start by loosening the soil around the beetroot with a garden fork or trowel. This will make it easier to pull up the beet without damaging it.
- Gently grasp the beetroot at the base of the stems and pull upwards. Try to pull straight up to avoid breaking the root.
- Once the beetroot is out of the ground, cut off the leaves and stems, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached to the beet. This will help prevent the beet from “bleeding” and losing its color and nutrients.
- Brush off any excess soil, but avoid washing the beetroot until you’re ready to use it. Washing can shorten its storage life.
It’s important to note that the leaves and stems of Early Wonder Beets are also edible and can be used in salads, stir-fries, and other dishes. They’re packed with nutrients and have a delicious, slightly bitter flavor.
Storing Early Wonder Beets
After harvesting, you’ll likely have more Early Wonder Beets than you can eat in one sitting. Fortunately, these beets store well and can last for several weeks if stored properly.
The best way to store Early Wonder Beets is in a cool, humid environment, such as a refrigerator or root cellar. Place the beets in a plastic bag or container and store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. They should last for 2 to 3 weeks.
If you have a root cellar, you can store the beets in a box filled with sand or sawdust. This will help maintain the right level of humidity and prevent the beets from drying out. In a root cellar, Early Wonder Beets can last for several months.
Conclusion
Early Wonder Beets are a fantastic addition to any home garden. They’re easy to grow, delicious to eat, and can be harvested in a relatively short amount of time. By understanding when and how to harvest these beets, you can ensure you get the most out of your crop.
So why not give Early Wonder Beets a try? With a little bit of care and attention, you’ll be enjoying your own homegrown beets in no time.
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