Mangel Wurzel

Description

1. Mangel Wurzel (Beta vulgaris var. altissima) is a traditional root vegetable that belongs to the beetroot family. It is primarily cultivated for its large, sweet, and nutritious root, making it valuable both as animal fodder and for human consumption in various forms. Mangel Wurzel is particularly known for its resilience and ability to grow in a variety of climates.
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3. Features:
4. Appearance: Mangel Wurzel has large, elongated roots with a reddish or orange color, often resembling a giant beetroot. The leaves are broad and reminiscent of the typical beet leaf, with a vibrant green color.
5. Size: Mangel Wurzel is known for its size and can grow quite large, with roots reaching up to 10-12 inches in length and up to 3-4 pounds each.
6. Flavor: The root has a sweet, earthy flavor when cooked. It can be used similarly to beets or root vegetables, although it is usually not consumed raw due to its size and texture.
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8. Planting Instructions:
9. Planting Time: Start seeds indoors about 4–6 weeks before the last frost date or sow them directly outdoors once the weather warms up in spring. Mangel Wurzel thrives in cool, well-drained soil but is frost-tolerant during its early stages of growth.
10. Soil Requirements: Mangel Wurzel prefers fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It grows best in soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Ensure the soil is free of rocks, which can hinder the growth of the roots.
11. Sunlight: It requires full sun for healthy growth. Ensure the planting area gets 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
12. Spacing: Space the seeds around 4 inches apart in rows, leaving 12-18 inches between each row. This allows enough room for the roots to grow to their full size.
13. Watering: Water the seeds regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy. Consistent moisture is important to avoid stress, which could affect root development.