Any plants require careful care, feeding and protection from various negative factors. I have been growing beets for many years and I know that sodium is a particularly important element for them. To make up for the sodium deficiency, I use ordinary table salt, and not purchased expensive products.
What is it for?
For beginners, the procedure for watering beets with salt water may seem strange, but it has its own advantages. When watering with saline, the tops do not fade, and the root crop itself increases the amount of sugary substances. This procedure allows you to compensate for the lack of sodium in the soil, so that the crop will be of better quality. This is a cost-effective and effective way to feed.
I'm not the only one using this method. Many agronomists note the effectiveness of the saline solution at the level of expensive fertilizers. Beets become sweeter. At the same time, it is protected from a number of diseases and pests.
But to get the desired result, it is important to follow all the recommendations. One of the basic rules is that when watering with saline, you must not affect other plants for which it will become poison.
Preparation of the remedy
I determine the proportions of the salt solution based on the appearance of the leaves. If she looks healthy, I make a weak solution. 1 teaspoon is enough for a bucket of warm water. This is the amount I use for 1 sq. m. beds.
Reddened leaves indicate a lack of sodium. In this case, I increase the dose to 2 tablespoons per bucket of water.
To prepare a working solution, I usually use coarse rock salt. The given proportions are calculated specifically for her. If you take fine salt of the Extra brand, then you need 2-3 times less.
The irrigation solution must have an ambient temperature, so I collect water in advance. It is better not to water with cold water, as it inhibits the development of plants and can provoke the occurrence of diseases.
If you will be using chlorinated water, then let it sit for a few days. I try to use rainwater for irrigation. To collect it, I have several containers on the site.
Salt fertilization
The first time I water the beets with a salt solution at the stage of formation of 4-5 leaves. During the season I feed in this way 2-3 times. The last time I fertilize is a month before harvest.
In addition to watering, plants can also be sprayed. The solution is prepared in exactly the same way.
Such top dressing not only enriches the soil, but also protects plantings from fungal diseases and insect pests. For preventive purposes, you can spray the bed with a weak solution of salt.
If fungi or pests have already appeared, you need to treat with a strong solution - 2 tbsp. l. to a bucket of water. During treatment, the leaves should be sprayed on both sides, as well as the ground around the plants. Salt is not dangerous or toxic, but it can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Therefore, I recommend the use of gloves and goggles.
Have you ever used saline to fertilize beets? Tell me what was the result. If you have never tried to fertilize beets like this, I advise you to do it. You will be satisfied with the harvest.
Read also: Why do beet leaves turn red and what to do about it?
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