Cylindra is the best known long type and is a very popular choice. The roots are a dark red colour, both to the skin and flesh. This variety grows well above ground for easy lifting. It is ideal for slicing for salad use and has a delicious sweet flavour. Matures after 9-14 weeks but can be eaten younger as a mini beet.
SOW & GROW: in the open at about 2cm deep, from mid-March to August or sow under glass in Jan/Feb for crops from May. Make several sowings for a continuous supply. Sowings in August may need protection later. Beet seeds are actually a cluster and will need thinning, alternatively pull some for use when young & leave the rest to grow on. Keep weed free and try not to let the soil dry out. Ready for harvest from 9-14 weeks from sowing, Cylindra can be pulled earlier as mini beets.
EAT & ENJOY: eat cooked, hot or cold and grated raw. Cook young leaves and stems like spinach or eat raw in salads. To Freeze – cook until tender, rinse, drain and dry, peel and cut off roots, freeze small beets whole, slice or dice larger ones.
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