Beetroot and Rocket

[ItsEssexRob]

When should you start harvesting the leaves of either? My wild rocket has about 8-9 leaves on them and the beetroots a only have 2-3 pairs but some are quite big now.

Is it true that if you pick a few as they are growing it encourages more? I dont want to damage the plant, leave it open to viruses, or too few leaves though.

Also how much room does each rocket plant require? At present I have 3 plants in a 6-7 inch pot that are growing ok, and others with just one in in small 4 inch pots. I was guessing they need roughly the same as herbs do?

Thanks

Rob

[Thelma Sanders]

Each rocket plant is about 12 inches across, fully grown. You can keep picking leaves, just leave a few in the heart to carry on growing.

Sorry can't help with the beet, I don't grow them.

[chefgage]

With the rocket I start picking when there is about eight leaves of good size. I find once I start picking
the leaves the plant grows very quickly. So if you have quite a few plants you soon have loads of rocket
(which is good if like me you like it)

[howtwolivesimply]

kinda common sense as to when you harvest the leaves,as long as the plant looks like it can handle losing a few leaves,just remember they are the solar panels collecting all that lovely energy,we lovbe beetroot leaves in a salad,adds great colour too.