Withering Beetroot

by Jim
(Kansas, USA)

What causes the leaves of beetroot to wither and the root to rot? I have tried to grow beetroot for several seasons now, and I have had no joy whatsoever. I was wondering if the beetroot was being attacked by some pest or disease.

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Oct 24, 2009
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Beetroot Withering due to Boran Deficiency
by: Countryfarm Lifestyles

It looks like your soil has a boron deficiency, which will also affect other vegetables in the same way, such as swedes and turnips, among others.

When you have a boron deficiency the leaves turn brown and wither, the crown becomes brown and the rot sets in, in the center of the root.

The solution to this problem is to use borax at the rate of 14g per 7 sq meters of soil in the spring. It is important not to exceed the amount as an excess of boron in the soil is just as much a nuisance as a deficiency. It must be spread evenly over the soil and is best made into a solution and applied with a watering can.

Some people don't like using borax, because although it is natural, it is still classified as a poison. An alternative answer is to use a seaweed solution to bring up your boron levels, or fish emulsion. Repeat until the soil pH is around 6.0 - 7.0

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