Beta vulgaris - Cicla group

Amaranthaceae

Silver Beet

Biennial herb grown as an annual for its edible foliage. Leaves oblong to ovate, with long petioles. Red leaved forms are available.

Uses

Harvest leaves by pulling off or cutting at the base. Do not leave leaf stalks on the plant. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, or used in casseroles. Vegetable.

Culture

Prefers cool conditions (15-19 degrees C), but will grow well during the warmer months in semi-shaded sites. In temperate climates sow seed in late autumn or early spring. Prefers a well drained soil, but must be kept moist. Fertilise the soil well before planting and provide additional nitrogen during the cropping season. Suffers from attack by chewing insects, slugs and snails. Keep weed free.

Propagation

Seed

Cultivars

No information available at this time...

Plant Health

No information available at this time...

More info

'Home Vegetable Growing' and 'Commercial Vegetable Production' courses through Australian Correspondence Schools, see www.acs.edu.au/hort. 'Commercial Hydroponics' on CDROM from Australian Correspondence Schools, see www.acs.edu.au/shop

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