Cylindrical Beet
Formanova Beet is an open-pollinated variety that delivers the speed gardeners crave: roots ready to harvest in just 50 days from seed. What sets it apart is its distinctive elongated, cylindrical shape, quite different from the round beets most gardeners know, along with its vibrant red color and buttery texture that earned it the nickname 'butter slicer.' This compact grower thrives in full sun and produces sweet, earthy roots that slice with remarkable uniformity, making it exceptional for canning and fresh market sales. The edible greens add another layer of value, harvestable young for salads or cooked as a nutritious side.
Full Sun
Moderate
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?in H x ?in W
Annual
Moderate
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Formanova's elongated cylindrical roots are instantly recognizable and remarkably uniform when sliced, a trait that earned this variety its 'butter slicer' reputation. The distinctive shape makes harvesting easier and reduces waste compared to round varieties, while the sweet, earthy flavor develops best in cool temperatures. Beyond the roots, the tender greens are equally worth harvesting young for salads or cooking down, making this one beet variety that truly gives twice.
Formanova shines as a canning beet, where its uniform cylindrical shape and consistent flesh color are genuine advantages. The roots slice beautifully for pickling, roasting, or serving fresh in salads and grain bowls. Young greens can be harvested and used raw in salads or wilted like spinach in cooked dishes, extending the harvest from a single planting.
Sow seed indoors in a cold frame about 5 to 6 weeks before transplanting outdoors after heavy frosts become infrequent. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep, placing 2 to 3 seeds per cell in 72- or 128-cell flats.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after heavy frosts become infrequent. Space transplants 3 inches apart in rows 12 to 18 inches apart. Note that transplanted beets may be less uniform than direct-seeded ones and taproots may tangle; gently pull roots while holding back neighboring plants during harvest. Transplanting allows earlier harvests when spring weather is poor.
Direct sow seed 1/2 inch deep in spring as soon as soil is workable. Thin seedlings to 3 inches apart as they develop.
Formanova reaches peak harvest at 50 days from seed, though sources note a typical range of 55 to 65 days depending on growing conditions. Roots are ready when they reach full size and the cylindrical shape is well-defined. Harvest by gently pulling roots while steadying the plant at its base to avoid damage. For fresh market use, wash bunches and refrigerate up to 10 days. The tender greens can be harvested at any point during the growing season for fresh use.
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