Crop Rotation Group
Chenopodiaceae (Beet family)
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Soil
Rich, moisture retentive soil which has had compost dug in.
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Position
Shade or partial shade.
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Frost tolerant
Yes, survives winter with mulch in milder areas.
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Feeding
Not needed for spring crops grown in rich soil, but older plants benefit from feeding with a liquid feed in spring, when they show vigorous new growth.
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Companions
-
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Spacing
Single Plants: 20cm (7") each way (minimum)
Rows: 15cm (5") with 30cm (11") row gap (minimum)
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Sow and Plant
Sow under cover in late winter, planting out in early spring, or direct into the soil from then on using cloches for protection if required.
Our Garden Planning Tool can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
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Notes
Keep well watered. Hot or dry conditions can make it bolt (run to seed) which reduces production of usable leaves considerably. Sow another crop in late summer/early autumn.
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Harvesting
Pick a few leaves at a time to allow the plant to continue producing more.
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Troubleshooting
Slow growth and yellowing leaves indicate nutritional stress. Drench with a water soluble plant food.
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