Like most vegetables, beets are best fresh from the garden.

Beets are easy to grow. They require rich soil that is loose, well drained and full of compost. Beets must be watered regularly. Infrequent watering will produce a woody beet. It is best to grow beets quickly and steadily. Sow the seeds 5” apart in early spring and continue sowing throughout the summer for a continuous crop. Harvest the young leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Fertilize regularly and add a bit of potassium to the soil.

Beets are an excellent source of vitamins and iron. Beets and their leaves are delicious lightly steamed with butter and balsamic vinegar. Eat them fresh or place in cold storage for later use.