Growing Touchstone Gold Beets in containers and pots is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to enjoy this nutritious root vegetable even if you don’t have a large garden. This variety of beet is known for its golden-yellow flesh and sweet, mild flavor. It’s a great choice for container gardening due to its compact size and adaptability. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of growing these vibrant beets in your own containers or pots.
Understanding Touchstone Gold Beets
Before we delve into the how-to of growing Touchstone Gold Beets, it’s important to understand a bit about this particular variety. Touchstone Gold Beets are a type of beetroot that is known for its golden-yellow flesh, as opposed to the traditional red. They have a sweet, mild flavor that is less earthy than red beets, making them a popular choice for those who are new to eating beets.
According to the USDA, beets are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. They’re also low in calories, making them a healthy addition to any diet. The golden variety, in particular, is noted for its high beta-carotene content, which is a powerful antioxidant.
Choosing the Right Container
The first step in growing Touchstone Gold Beets in containers or pots is choosing the right container. The size of the container will largely determine how many beets you can grow, as well as how well they will grow.
According to the University of Minnesota Extension, a container that is at least 12 inches deep and 12 inches in diameter is ideal for growing beets. This will allow enough room for the beets to develop without becoming crowded. The container should also have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Planting the Seeds
Once you’ve chosen the right container, it’s time to plant your beet seeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Fill your container with a good quality potting mix. Avoid using garden soil as it can compact in containers and hinder root growth.
- Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart. This will give the beets enough room to grow without crowding each other out.
- Water the seeds thoroughly after planting. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
- Place the container in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Beets need plenty of sunlight to grow properly.
Caring for Your Beets
After planting your beet seeds, the next step is to care for them as they grow. This involves watering, fertilizing, and monitoring for pests and diseases.
Beets prefer a consistently moist soil, so it’s important to water them regularly. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
According to the Penn State Extension, beets benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied every 4-6 weeks. This will provide the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong.
Keep an eye out for common beet pests like aphids and leaf miners, as well as diseases like leaf spot and root rot. If you notice any signs of these, take action immediately to prevent them from spreading.
Harvesting Your Beets
The final step in growing Touchstone Gold Beets in containers or pots is harvesting them. This is arguably the most rewarding part of the process, as you finally get to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Touchstone Gold Beets are typically ready to harvest 55-60 days after planting. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops of the beets are about 1-2 inches in diameter. To harvest, simply pull the beets out of the soil. Be sure to harvest all of your beets before the first frost, as they can become woody and less flavorful if left in the ground too long.
After harvesting, you can store your beets in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Be sure to remove the tops before storing, as they can draw moisture away from the beetroot, causing it to shrivel.
Conclusion
Growing Touchstone Gold Beets in containers or pots is a fun and rewarding project that can yield a bountiful harvest of nutritious, delicious beets. With the right container, proper care, and a bit of patience, you can enjoy these golden gems from your own garden. So why wait? Start planting your Touchstone Gold Beets today!
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