Beetroot grows to be fist-sized or even larger, depending on the variety. However, it can also be harvested at any time before its final size. But what if the beetroot doesn't grow? Find out below why this could be and what to do.
Why is my beetroot not growing and what can I do?
If beetroot does not grow, the causes can be a lack of nutrients, unfavorable site conditions, poor plant neighbors, pests or incorrect crop rotation. For successful growth, you should pay attention to the needs of the beetroot and take appropriate measures.
Beetroot doesn't germinate
You sowed your beetroot a week ago and there is still no green to be seen? No panic! Beetroot is one of the slow-germinating vegetables and can take up to two weeks to germinate.
Tip
If you want to speed up the germination process, soak the seeds in water overnight before sowing and place your beetroot in a warm, bright place.
Beetroot stays small
Your beetroot has sprouted, has a few leaves but just doesn't grow anymore? Something is wrong here. The beetroot is almost certainly unhappy. The lack of growth can have the following causes:
- The earth lacks nutrients
- The beetroot is too dark
- The beetroot is with a neighbor who is not well disposed towards it
- A vole or other voracious pest secretly feasts on the beetroot
- Beetroot was also grown at the same location last year
What to do if the beetroot doesn't grow?
First you should check which of the above causes could apply in your case, then you can eliminate the problem and stimulate the beetroot to grow.
Nutrients for beetroot
If the beetroot lacks nutrients, the solution is clear: fertilizer (€19.00 at Amazon) is needed. Beetroot is best grown with compost or with plant manure such as nettle or comfrey manure. You can find out more about fertilizing beetroot here.
Beetroot is dissatisfied with its location
Once you have planted the beetroot too darkly and combined it with unfavorable plant neighbors, it is difficult to change that. The best thing to do is to harvest the mini beets, process them into a delicious salad and sow them again in a good location.
Pests nibble on the beets
In general, beetroot is rarely attacked by pests. You can prevent voles by combining beetroot with garlic.
Observe crop rotation
Beetroot should never follow beetroot. You should also not sow where spinach, rye, orach or chard grew last year. Pay attention to crop rotation!
