Beta macrocarpa
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Beta macrocarpa

Beet · Large-fruited Beet

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
15–35 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 7–10
Click count
67
Observations
40

Description

Source: leafsnap

Beta macrocarpa, the large-fruited beet, is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae, native to the Canary Islands and the shores of the Mediterranean. It is widely used to study beet necrotic yellow vein virus in an effort to improve the sugar beet.

Care Guide

💧 Water
☀️ Light Full sun

Beet is native to areas with abundant sunlight, such as open fields and sunny meadows. It favors full sun, but can also tolerate partial sun.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 15–35°C

For Beet, moderate temperatures are optimal, similar to what people usually find comfortable. It does best in conditions that are not too hot or too cold. The main problem with high temperatures is the risk of sunburn, so in summer it is recommended to give some shade to prevent excessive heat. When temperatures fall, Beet goes into dormancy. If continuous growth is wanted, higher temperatures must be kept during winter. Frost can damage the plant and should be avoided.

Ideal temperature: 15–35°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Beet varieties benefit from one or two treatments with organic fertilizers rich in potassium and phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer before planting, incorporate it into the soil and water thoroughly. Usually a single application is enough, but a second can be given once seedlings are established. Avoid overusing fertilizer, as excess can damage the plants.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Beets benefit greatly from strategic pruning, which enhances air circulation and removes any damaged parts. Pruning from early to late spring is optimal for promoting root growth and overall plant health, resulting in better yields. Additionally, regular maintenance helps deter pests and diseases, making pruning an essential practice for successful gardening.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Beta
Family
Amaranthaceae
Hardiness Zone
7-10
Mature Height
30 cm to 76 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 40 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Size
0.20 cm to 0.25 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Summer
Native Area
Libya, Turkey, Tunisia, Italy, Spain, Israel, Cyprus, Algeria, Greece, Morocco, Portugal

Tags (5)

Common Names (2)

en Beet
en Large-fruited Beet