How to Grow Beetroot in Australia

Beetroot is an excellent raised bed crop — it grows compactly, is relatively fast, and provides two harvests in one (roots and leaves). It tolerates mild frosts and can be grown almost year-round in cooler Australian climates.

Beetroot seed is technically a seed cluster containing 2–5 seeds in a corky coating. Sow 2–3cm deep in rows 25cm apart. After germination, multiple seedlings typically emerge from each cluster — thin ruthlessly to 8–10cm spacing, as overcrowded beetroot produces small, misshapen roots. Use thinnings in salads.

Soak seed clusters in water for 4–6 hours before sowing to soften the corky coating and improve germination. Beetroot germinates best at soil temperatures between 10°C and 24°C.

Prepare the bed with generous compost but avoid fresh manure (which causes forked, hairy roots). Beetroot prefers a slightly higher pH than most vegetables — add garden lime if the soil is below pH 6.5. Boron deficiency causes the inside of roots to become hollow and dark — apply a borax solution (1 teaspoon per 5L water, applied once per season) to prevent this.

Feed with a potassium-rich fertiliser every 3–4 weeks to encourage strong root development. Consistent moisture is critical — irregular watering causes concentric light rings inside the root (zoning) and reduces quality.

Choose from classic 'Beetroot Detroit Dark Red', elongated 'Cylindra' (easy to slice), or golden 'Golden Beet' (sweeter, doesn't bleed).