Overview
Early Wonder Tall Top is a fast-growing beet that offers the best of both worlds—tender, sweet roots and tall, leafy greens perfect for sautéing. Ideal for early spring or fall planting, it’s a reliable heirloom that’s easy to grow and well suited for small gardens or raised beds.
Conditions
For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. In general, cool temperatures produce the best flesh color. For the best quality beets, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight).
Planting
Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 14-21 days.
Plant seeds outdoors when soil has warmed to 45°F. Plant approximately 15 seeds per foot, ½" deep, and thin to one seedling every 3" as they sprout. Plant some every 2 weeks for a continuous harvest.
Pests & Diseases
Keep beets well irrigated to prevent scab, the same disorder that affects potatoes, causing raised brown rough spots on the mature roots. Internal breakdown or browning is most likely to occur in alkaline soils after prolonged hot, dry periods. This is caused by a boron deficiency. Rotate crops to prevent Cercospora leaf spot and other soil borne diseases.
Harvest
Harvest roots when they reach 2–3" in diameter for the best flavor and texture. Greens can be harvested young and used like mustard or kale. Pull plants promptly, as larger roots can become woody if left too long.
