Rote Bete Ernten: A Comprehensive Guide to Harvesting Beets

Beets, also known as beetroot or red beet, are a root vegetable that has been cultivated for centuries. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and they can be used in a variety of dishes.

If you are growing beets in your garden, you will need to know how to harvest them. Harvesting beets at the right time is important to ensure that they are at their best flavor and nutritional value.

When to Harvest Beets

The best time to harvest beets is when they are between 2 and 3 inches in diameter. The roots should be firm and smooth, and the tops should be bright green and healthy.

You can also harvest beets by their maturity date. Most beets will mature in 60 to 75 days. However, the maturity date can vary depending on the variety of beet and the growing conditions.

How to Harvest Beets

To harvest beets, use a garden fork or spade to carefully loosen the soil around the roots. Then, gently pull the beets out of the ground.

Be careful not to damage the roots when you are harvesting them. Damaged beets will not store as well as undamaged beets.

Storing Beets

Once you have harvested your beets, you need to store them properly. Beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months.

To store beets in the refrigerator, place them in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel. To store beets in a cool, dark place, place them in a cardboard box or wooden crate with a layer of sand or sawdust.

Nutritional Value of Beets

Beets are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One cup of cooked beets contains:

• Calories: 59
• Carbohydrates: 13 grams
• Protein: 2 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Vitamin C: 6% of the daily value (DV)
• Potassium: 9% of the DV
• Manganese: 16% of the DV
• Folate: 10% of the DV
• Iron: 6% of the DV

Health Benefits of Beets

Beets have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including:

• Reduced risk of heart disease: Beets contain compounds that have been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Improved athletic performance: Beets contain nitrates, which have been shown to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles.
• Reduced inflammation: Beets contain antioxidants that have been shown to reduce inflammation.
• Improved cognitive function: Beets contain compounds that have been shown to improve blood flow to the brain.

Recipes Using Beets

Beets can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

• Roasted beets: Roasted beets are a simple and delicious side dish. Simply toss beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 45 minutes, or until they are tender.
• Beet salad: Beet salad is a refreshing and healthy salad that is perfect for summer. Combine cooked beets, goat cheese, walnuts, and arugula in a bowl. Drizzle with a vinaigrette dressing and enjoy.
• Beet soup: Beet soup is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for winter. Combine cooked beets, vegetable broth, onions, garlic, and spices in a pot. Simmer until the soup is heated through.

Conclusion

Beets are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that has a variety of health benefits. Harvesting beets is easy, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. Enjoy beets in a variety of dishes, and reap the health benefits they have to offer.

Useful Tables

Stories and What We Learn

• Story 1: A woman named Maria was struggling with high blood pressure. Her doctor recommended that she eat more beets. Maria started eating beets every day, and within a few months, her blood pressure had dropped significantly.
• What we learn: Beets can help to lower blood pressure.
• Story 2: A man named John was a runner. He was always looking for ways to improve his performance. One day, he read about a study that showed that beets can improve athletic performance. John started drinking beet juice before his runs, and he noticed a significant improvement in his times.
• What we learn: Beets can help to improve athletic performance.
• Story 3: A woman named Susan was suffering from chronic inflammation. Her doctor recommended that she try eating beets. Susan started eating beets every day, and within a few weeks, her inflammation had decreased significantly.
• What we learn: Beets can help to reduce inflammation.

Effective Strategies

• Plant beets in well-drained soil. Beets need well-drained soil to grow properly. If your soil is not well-drained, you can amend it with compost or sand.
• Water beets regularly. Beets need regular watering to grow properly. Water your beets deeply, especially during hot weather.
• Fertilize beets every few weeks. Beets need to be fertilized every few weeks to grow properly. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
• Harvest beets when they are mature. Beets are mature when they are between 2 and 3 inches in diameter. The roots should be firm and smooth, and the tops should be bright green and healthy.

Tips and Tricks

• To make beets easier to peel, boil them in water for a few minutes.
• To store beets for up to 2 months, place them in a cardboard box or wooden crate with a layer of sand or sawdust.
• To add a sweet flavor to beets, roast them with honey or maple syrup.
• To add a tangy flavor to beets, roast them with vinegar or lemon juice.
• To make beet juice, simply juice cooked beets.