You’ll get the best-tasting beets if you plant them during thecool weatherof early spring or fall.
Excessive heat and allowing the roots to become too large can produce tough, fibrous beets.
Once harvested, the greens should be cut about one inch from the root.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Beet greens can be washed and prepared like any other greens.
Beet greens should be used quickly, but can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Picking Leaves vs.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
The key is to snip only two or three leaves from each plant.
The beetroot needs leaves so it can fully form, so don’t harvest all of the leaves.
Younger leaves are more tender, while those longer than six inches can be tough.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Of course, beet seeds can be planted just for the greens if you prefer them over the roots.
Check your seed packet for “days needed to mature”.
High temperatures and low moisture produce low-quality beet roots.
Beet roots that are allowed to freeze in the ground will be mushy when they thaw.
