No. 4025 — Growing Beetroot
English historical translation of Molokhovets recipe No. 4025 from the 1901 Russian cookbook, retaining original methods and measures.
For large tasty beets choose seed from long-rooted large red varieties and deep, loose, rich soil that has not been freshly manured.
Sow thinly in shallow furrows at the end of April or beginning of May. The source claims seeds germinate in about six days and remain viable up to four years.
When plants have five or six leaves, thin or transplant to leave four to six inches between them.
Loosen heavy soil around the roots as they grow.
In late September or early October, at the onset of frost, lift the roots, cut leaves back to the crown and feed leaves to cows.
Store beets in a cellar in sand, arranging them in a cone. Young green leaves that sprout during storage are also used in dishes.