Beets: The Garden's New Rock Star

YORKTON - Hold onto your forks, because beets are taking center stage! This beloved veggie is transforming into the ultimate culinary sensation, celebrated for more than just the classic pickled variety or hearty borscht.

If you've dined at trendy restaurants lately, you might have noticed beets appearing in creative dishes such as wraps and vibrant salads. It seems everything old is becoming new again, especially when it comes to this versatile root.

A Journey Through Time

Imagine a gardener toiling in ancient Egypt, harvesting beets—a practice that dates back thousands of years! Initially cultivated for their lush greens, Romans later discovered the delicious roots, paving the way for beets to be recognized not only for their taste but also for their homeopathic healing properties over the centuries.

The Perfect Prairie Vegetable

In prairie gardens, beets reign supreme. These hardy roots thrive in well-draining soil and basking sunlight, requiring a minimum of six hours of sunshine daily. Dubbed a 'cool-weather crop,' they are perfect for early planting. Most beet varieties take about 70 days to mature, but if you're after that gourmet look, you might prefer to harvest them when they're still small.

Choosing the Right Size

But don’t be fooled—size isn’t everything! Beets that are about the size of a large egg or golf ball generally offer the best flavor and are easiest to prepare. While some adventurous cooks might aim for larger beets, the jumbo ones can be unwieldy and tough to work with.

Low-Maintenance Beauty

One of the great perks of growing beets is their resilience. They face minimal pest or disease issues, making them a low-maintenance choice for any gardener. Plus, their vibrant leaves add a splash of color to your garden and can enhance 'food scaping' designs. Don't have a garden? No problem! Beets can easily thrive in 12-inch deep containers filled with well-draining soil.

Culinary Delights Await!

So, you’ve harvested your beets—what's next? While I'm a fan of the classic borscht, the culinary possibilities are endless! From zesty pickles to fresh salads made with their tops, beets shine in many dishes. I remember my mom steaming small beets, then drizzling them with lemon juice and butter—pure heaven!

Roasting them with carrots is another winning method—just toss with olive oil and salt, roast until tender, and enjoy a mouthwatering side. Many gardeners whip up a delightful beet and horseradish mixture for festive occasions. And let’s not forget, these gems are packed with vitamins and fiber, making them an easy ask when someone reminds you to 'eat your beets!'

Join the Horticultural Adventure

This summer, the Yorkton and District Horticultural Society will be tending to our gardens, with our next meeting set for fall. For more gardening tips and event updates, visit us at www.yorktonhort.ca. Here’s to a fruitful gardening season!

Thanks to our friends at YTW; wishing you a wonderful week ahead!