Grow Beetroot in Pakistan – Complete Guide
Share
Growing beetroot (چقندر) at home is simple, fast, and highly rewarding. Whether you love them in salads, juices, or traditional dishes, fresh beets from your own garden are sweeter and more nutritious than store-bought ones. Here’s an easy guide to grow beetroot successfully in Pakistan’s climate.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Sowing Time | October to February |
| Ideal Temperature | 15°C to 25°C |
| Germination Time | 5–10 days |
| Transplant Time | Usually direct sowing (no transplanting needed) |
| Spacing | 3–4 inches between plants |
| Harvest Time | 50–70 days after sowing |
Step 1: Sow Seeds 🌱
When to Sow:
- Sow seeds from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- The ideal temperature for sowing is between 15°C and 25°C.
- Avoid sowing during very hot months, as beetroot prefers mild temperatures for best growth.
How to Sow: Direct sow seeds into loose, fertile soil mixed with compost. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep and space them 3–4 inches apart.
Germination Tips: Seeds usually germinate in 5–10 days. Keep the soil moist during germination but avoid overwatering.
Step 2: Thin Seedlings 🌿
When to Thin: Once seedlings are about 2–3 inches tall, thin them by gently removing weaker plants, leaving one strong seedling every 3–4 inches.
Why Thin: Thinning ensures enough space for each beetroot to grow round and healthy without crowding.
Aftercare: Water gently after thinning to help remaining seedlings settle quickly.
Step 3: Care for Plants 🌞💧
Sunlight Needs: Beetroot grows best in full sun, getting at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Watering: Water moderately 2–3 times a week, keeping soil evenly moist but not soggy. Consistent watering helps develop tender, juicy roots.
Feeding Schedule: Mix compost into soil before planting. Lightly feed with balanced fertilizer (NPK 20-20-20) once or twice during the growing season if needed.
Step 4: Protect Plants 🐛
Common Pests: Watch for leaf miners, aphids, and flea beetles feeding on the leaves.
Natural Protection: Spray neem oil solution every 10–12 days (1 teaspoon neem oil + 1 liter water + few drops soap), focusing on the undersides of leaves.
Common Problems:
- Yellow Leaves: Usually caused by water stress or lack of nutrients — adjust watering and add compost.
- Small Roots: Often a result of overcrowding — make sure to thin seedlings early.
Step 5: Harvest Roots 🌱
When to Harvest: Beetroots are ready 50–70 days after sowing, when roots are about 2–3 inches wide and tops are lush.
How to Harvest: Gently pull the plant by grasping the base of the leaves or use a small garden fork to lift roots without damaging them.
Bonus Tip: Harvest beets while they are still small and tender for the best flavor. Older beets can become woody and tough.
FAQs
1. Can I grow beetroot in pots?
Yes, you can easily grow beetroot in deep pots (10–12 inches) with loose, fertile soil.
2. Why are my beetroot tops healthy but no root is forming?
This happens if plants get too much nitrogen. Use balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer, and avoid overfeeding.
3. Can beetroot survive full summer sun?
Beetroot prefers cool temperatures. In summer, plants may bolt (flower early) or roots may stay small.
4. Can I eat beetroot leaves?
Yes, young beetroot leaves are edible and delicious in salads, stir-fries, and soups.
Growing beetroot at home is quick, fun, and perfect for beginners. With a little patience, steady watering, and loose soil, you’ll soon enjoy sweet, vibrant beets — packed with flavor and nutrition, straight from your garden.
