BEETROOT harvesting usually runs from early summer to mid-autumn, although it can be harvested at any stage of growth, depending on the size of the beets required.

To store beetroot, place it in a wooden box laid in a bed of loose straw or sand and cover it with straw or sand. The box should be placed in a cool, dry, frost-free area such as a garage. The length of time it can be stored will depend on the type and also the conditions within the store, but generally it should survive for a few months in reasonable shape.

Although the round beet is the most common to grow, other shapes such as oval, flat and oblong are also available. And while red is the most popular colour, there are also golden varieties such as Burpee’s Golden and white ones. The leaves are also edible.