Sowing – Sow thinly, 1cm (½in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart.

Growing – Thin seedlings to 5cm (2in) apart when large enough to handle. Later thinnings will be suitable for using in salads. Harvest when roots reach about 4cm (1½in) in diameter or more. The smaller the root the better the quality. Beet can be stored by lifting the remaining roots; twist off the tops and store in boxes of slightly damp sand in frost-free conditions.

Harvest – June to October