Touchstone Gold Beets are a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious addition to any garden. Their golden hue adds a pop of color to your garden and your plate. But how do you plant them? What are the best patterns and spacing for these beets to thrive? Let’s dive in and find out.
Understanding Touchstone Gold Beets
Before we delve into the planting process, it’s essential to understand what Touchstone Gold Beets are. They are a type of beetroot known for their golden-yellow flesh, a stark contrast to the traditional red beetroot. They are sweet, tender, and less earthy compared to their red counterparts.
Touchstone Gold Beets are also packed with nutrients. According to the USDA, they are rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. They are also low in calories, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious gardeners.
Preparing the Soil
Like all plants, Touchstone Gold Beets need the right soil conditions to grow. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for these beets.
According to the Oregon State University Extension Service, you should start preparing the soil a few weeks before planting. This includes removing weeds, adding compost, and testing the soil’s pH level.
Steps to Prepare the Soil
- Clear the planting area of weeds and other debris.
- Add a layer of compost to the soil and mix it in well.
- Test the soil’s pH level. If it’s too acidic (below 6.0), add lime to increase the pH. If it’s too alkaline (above 7.0), add sulfur to decrease the pH.
- Water the soil thoroughly and let it settle for a few days before planting.
Planting Touchstone Gold Beets
Once the soil is prepared, it’s time to plant the beet seeds. Touchstone Gold Beets should be planted in the spring or fall, as they prefer cooler temperatures. They also need plenty of sunlight, so choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Spacing is crucial when planting beets. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, beet seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep and 2 to 4 inches apart. Rows should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart.
Steps to Plant Touchstone Gold Beets
- Make a row in the soil with a hoe or stick.
- Place the beet seeds in the row, spacing them 2 to 4 inches apart.
- Cover the seeds with soil and pat it down gently.
- Water the soil thoroughly.
- Repeat this process for each row, making sure the rows are 12 to 18 inches apart.
Caring for Your Beets
After planting, your beets will need regular care to grow and thrive. This includes watering, thinning, and dealing with pests and diseases.
Beets need consistent moisture, especially during the first few weeks after planting. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The Colorado State University Extension recommends watering beets deeply once a week.
Thinning
Thinning is a crucial step in beet care. As the beet seedlings start to grow, you’ll notice that they are too close together. Thinning ensures each beet has enough space to grow to its full size.
The University of Maryland Extension recommends thinning beet seedlings when they are 4 to 5 inches tall. The remaining plants should be spaced about 3 to 4 inches apart.
Pests and Diseases
Touchstone Gold Beets can be affected by various pests and diseases. Common pests include leaf miners and aphids, while diseases include leaf spot and root rot. Regular monitoring and early intervention can help keep these issues at bay.
The University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program provides comprehensive information on managing beet pests and diseases.
Harvesting and Storing
Touchstone Gold Beets are typically ready to harvest 55 to 60 days after planting. The beets should be about 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter when harvested. However, they can be harvested earlier as “baby beets” if desired.
After harvesting, beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. For longer storage, they can be canned, pickled, or frozen.
Planting and caring for Touchstone Gold Beets can be a rewarding experience. With the right preparation, planting pattern, and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these golden beauties. So why wait? Start planning your beet garden today!
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