Boltardy Beet (46 Days)
Originated in Holland and is now one of the most popular beets in England. The Boltardy Beet is ideal for early sowing because, as the name implies it does not bolt. Color is very strong – thought of as a “high-pigment” beet. The size approaches that of a tennis ball and the sweet, beet flavor is superb.
300 seeds
PLANTING
Beta vulgaris
Germination: 5-10 days
Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 50-85ºF. Soaking the seeds overnight aids in germination.
Seed Sowing Depth: 1/2” deep
Starting Indoors: 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Sow 1-2 seeds per cell/pot. Thin to 1 seedling per cell/pot. Transplant outdoors when the first true leaves appear, 3” apart.
Sowing Outdoors: Early spring with soil temperatures at least 50ºF. Sow 1-2” apart, thin when plants are 2-4” tall, 3-4” apart. Germination is slower at lower soil temperatures.
How much does a packet plant: 20-25 foot single row
Harvest: Begin picking at 1” for baby beets and up to 3” across for the most tender and best tasting. For best storage cut off the greens 2” above the top of the beet.
Tips: The Boltardy Beet “seeds” are actually fruits that contain multiple seeds inside with several seedlings emerging from one seed. Use the thinned seedlings for beet greens or plant a heavily seeded row for baby beet greens. Beets need to grow rapidly and evenly by providing soil rich in organic matter and adequate moisture. Sow every 2 weeks for a continuous harvest.