Evaluation of beetroot (Beta vulgaris ssp. esculenta var. rubra) varieties for different uses

Abstract

Species testing of beet is of great importance because it provides information on the quality parameters of the genotype at the place of cultivation. The results of the measurements are intended to suggest the production of raw material suitable for the intended use (canned lettuce, dried beet, juice, etc.). The genotypes that are most suitable for fresh consumption are those that develop a spherical carrot body. Bonel on chernozem soils and Akela on sandy soils showed the best sweet flavour without an earthy aftertaste. This variety was also characterised by a uniform, intense red internal colour and absence of white rings. Processing cylindrical varieties is advised because the final goods seem better when the slices have the same diameter. It is recommended to cultivate Carillon on sandy soil and Lomako on chalky chernozem soil. Selecting a genotype with a high concentration of colorants and water-soluble solids and no earthy aftertaste is worthwhile for beetroot juice manufacturing. The Bonel and Akela types are suggested for beet production on chalky chernozem soil, whereas Carillon demonstrated good performance on sandy soil. The high dry matter content is a crucial factor in determining the quality of preserved beetroots, allowing them to be kept for an extended period of time without compromising their quality. We discovered that three varieties – Larka, Libero, and Bonel – can be cultivated well for this purpose on calcareous chernozem soil; Libero produced very good results. However, in sandy soil types, the Akela, Carillon, and Lomako varieties – of which Akela was the best – proved to be advantageous.