WINTER is all about fluffy blankets and hearty meals. All you want to do is stay warm and cozy; until the much loved Zululand sun spreads its arms and welcomes us all back home.
If you are a keen gardener cum chef, then beetroot is just the veg for you this winter!
Beetroot has been used as a blood builder, detoxifier and as treatment for ailments like anaemia, depression, protection against colon cancer; it helps prevent heart disease and lowers blood pressure and is also a natural energy booster.
So you won’t be gardening in vain. The health effects of beetroot are amazing!
Beetroot can be grown almost throughout the year in South Africa, with spring to autumn being the best time to sow and will be ready to harvest after eight to 10 weeks.
All root vegetables need soil that has been thoroughly dug over with all hard clumps of soil broken down and stones removed which will prevent deformed or underdeveloped crops.
Add lots of compost and organic fertiliser to the bed and ensure that the drainage is good.
Soak the seed overnight in water before sowing to speed up germination.
Seedlings do not always transplant well so sow the seed directly into the bed 5cm to 12cm apart and leave about 20cm to 30cm between the rows.
Always keep the soil moist but not saturated as a lack of water can spoil the quality of the crop.
Health Benefits
Researchers have found that beets contain a component that is used to treat depression; as well as tryptophan, which has been shown to create a sense of well-being while also relaxing the mind. Beets are also a great way to lower blood pressure.
The roots and leaves are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, folic acid and vitamins A, C, K and B6.
Because beetroot is high in vitamin B and iron, they are especially beneficial for pregnant woman.
Beetroot also has high levels of beta carotene; Making it a good cancer prevention vegetable.
Culinary
Beetroot can be eaten raw, cooked, hot or cold; so it is easy to include in your diet. Tender young beetroot leaves make superb spinach and can also be used raw if chopped finely and added to salads. The roots can be boiled and eaten as a vegetable; or thinly sliced, drizzled with olive oil and roasted or even pickled.
Companion Planting
Plant a row of brightly coloured marigolds next to the beetroot to fend off insects. Beetroot grows well with onions, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, lettuce, garlic, cucumbers and peas. They don’t enjoy growing close to potatoes, tomatoes and maize.
