Growing Cylindra Beets indoors is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. This variety of beetroot, known for its elongated shape and sweet flavor, is a great addition to any indoor garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will provide you with all the necessary steps and tips to successfully grow Cylindra Beets indoors.
Understanding Cylindra Beets
Cylindra Beets, also known as Formanova Beets, are a unique variety of beetroot. They are characterized by their cylindrical shape, which can grow up to 6 inches long. This shape makes them an excellent choice for slicing and pickling. The taste of Cylindra Beets is also noteworthy, as they are sweeter and more tender than other beet varieties.
Originally from Denmark, Cylindra Beets are a cool-season crop, meaning they prefer cooler temperatures. This makes them an excellent choice for indoor gardening, as you can control the temperature and conditions more easily than in an outdoor garden.
Getting Started
Choosing the Right Container
When growing Cylindra Beets indoors, the first thing you need to consider is the container. Since these beets can grow up to 6 inches long, you’ll need a container that is at least 8 inches deep. This will allow the beets to grow freely without being constricted by the container’s bottom.
Additionally, the container should have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. Excess water can lead to root rot, a disease that can kill your beets. Therefore, choose a container with holes at the bottom or add a layer of pebbles to facilitate drainage.
Preparing the Soil
Cylindra Beets prefer well-draining, loamy soil. You can purchase a pre-made potting mix or make your own by combining equal parts of garden soil, compost, and sand. The compost will provide the necessary nutrients, while the sand will improve drainage.
According to the USDA, the ideal pH for beetroot is between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test the pH of your soil using a pH meter, which can be purchased from any garden store. If the pH is too high or too low, you can adjust it using lime or sulfur, respectively.
Planting the Seeds
- Fill your container with the prepared soil, leaving about 1 inch of space from the top.
- Scatter the beet seeds evenly across the surface of the soil. Each seed should be about 1 inch apart from each other.
- Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, about 1/2 inch deep.
- Water the soil gently, making sure it’s evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Place the container in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. If natural sunlight is not available, you can use grow lights.
Caring for Your Cylindra Beets
Watering
Beets require consistent watering to grow properly. The soil should always be moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can lead to stunted growth. A good rule of thumb is to water the beets when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
It’s also important to water the beets gently to avoid disturbing the seeds or seedlings. A watering can with a long spout or a spray bottle is ideal for this purpose.
Feeding
Beets are heavy feeders, meaning they require a lot of nutrients to grow properly. Therefore, it’s important to feed your beets regularly with a balanced fertilizer. A fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) is ideal for beets.
According to the USDA, you should start feeding the beets when they are about 4 weeks old, and continue feeding every 2 weeks until harvest. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying fertilizer.
Harvesting Your Cylindra Beets
Harvesting Cylindra Beets is a satisfying experience. You can start harvesting when the beets are about 1 inch in diameter, but for the best flavor, wait until they are about 2 inches in diameter. To harvest, simply pull the beets out of the soil. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots.
After harvesting, you can store the beets in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks. If you want to store them for longer, you can pickle them or freeze them.
Common Problems and Solutions
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common disease in beets, caused by a fungus. It’s characterized by small, dark spots on the leaves. If left untreated, leaf spot can lead to significant leaf loss and reduced yield.
To prevent leaf spot, ensure your beets have good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If your beets are already infected, you can treat them with a fungicide.
Root Rot
Root rot is another common problem in beets, caused by overwatering. It’s characterized by wilting leaves and a rotten smell. If left untreated, root rot can kill your beets.
To prevent root rot, ensure your beets have good drainage and avoid overwatering. If your beets are already infected, you may need to remove and discard them to prevent the disease from spreading.
Conclusion
Growing Cylindra Beets indoors can be a rewarding experience, providing you with fresh, tasty beets all year round. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a successful harvest. So why not give it a try? Happy gardening!
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