Guest post by Katrina & Clayton
Mangelwurzel (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris), often simply called mangel, is a traditional root crop that has been grown in Britain for centuries, related to sugar beet, beetroot AND chard, producing a huge root with chard like leaves. Historically used as livestock feed, it is increasingly appreciated by gardeners for its productivity, versatility and suitability to cooler climates such as Scotland.
Mangelwurzel is a versatile crop with multiple edible parts.
The root is the primary edible portion. It can be boiled, roasted or mashed, though it is less sweet than modern beetroot varieties.
The leaves can be eaten similarly to spinach or chard, offering a nutritious green vegetable throughtout the Summer months.
Historically, mangelwurzel has been used as animal feed, but it is perfectly suitable for human consumption, particularly when harvested young and tender. Larger roots can become coarse, so for culinary use, harvesting earlier may produce better results.
Growing Conditions and Soil for Mangelwurzels
Mangelwurzel thrives in cool, moist climate, making it a reliable crop even in less than ideal seasons. It prefers a sunny, open position, as full sunlight encourages strong root development and healthy top growth. While it can tolerate some light shade, yields will be reduced if sunlight is limited.
The most important factor for successful growth is soil quality. Mangelwurzel requires good moisture retention without waterlogging, loamy soil is ideal as it provides the right balance between drainage and moisture retention. In Scotland, where heavy clay soils are common, improving soil structure is essential. Incorporating generous amounts of compost or well-rotted manure helps break up dense soil and allows roots to expand freely. We use Caledonian Green Goodness as it is the perfect balance for the whole season, it is a peat-free soil improver that will add nutrients and organic matter to your soil.
Planting Times
Timing is crucial when growing mangelwurzel in Scotland, as soil temperature and moisture levels can vary significantly.
The best time to sow seeds outdoors is Mid April-May. You can start them off indoors/in a greenhouse from February onwards and move them outside in May.
Sown seeds directly into the ground once the soil has warmed to at least 7–10°C. In colder parts of Scotland, waiting until May may give better results, as early sowing in cold, wet soil can lead to poor germination.
Sow seeds in rows about 45–60 cm apart, with seeds spaced 15–20 cm apart. Once seedlings emerge, thinning is essential to allow each plant enough room to develop large roots.
During the growing season:
- Remove any damaged or yellowing leaves to maintain airflow
- Clear away diseased foliage promptly to prevent spread
The leaves play a vital role in photosynthesis and root development, so healthy foliage should be left intact. Excessive removal of leaves will reduce the size and quality of the root, when removing leaves to eat during the Summer make sure you leave enough on the plant to grow.
At the end of the season, foliage can be cut back when harvesting the roots.
Caring for Mangelwurzel
Mangelwurzel is a relatively low maintenance crop, but proper care ensures the best yields.
Watering
Consistent moisture is key, especially during the early stages of growth and as roots begin to swell. Scotland’s natural rainfall often provides sufficient water, but additional watering may be needed during dry spells.
Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as this can lead to tough, woody roots.
Feeding
Mangelwurzel is a heavy feeder and benefits from nutrient rich soil. Before planting, incorporate well rotted manure or compost into the soil.
During the growing season, a balanced fertiliser can be applied if growth appears slow. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can encourage leafy growth at the expense of root development. We use liquid seaweed successfully on all of our crops
Weeding
Keep the growing area free from weeds, particularly in the early stages. Weeds compete for nutrients and water, reducing crop size.
Mulching
Applying mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Organic mulches such as straw or compost are ideal.
Companion Planting
Mangelwurzel grows well alongside a variety of other crops, making it suitable for mixed planting schemes.
Good companions include:
- Brassicas such as cabbage and kale
- Onions and garlic, which help deter pests
- Lettuce and spinach, which make efficient use of space between rows
Avoid planting mangelwurzel near other root crops like carrots or parsnips if space is limited, as they may compete for nutrients underground.
Companion planting can also improve soil health and reduce pest problems, contributing to a more productive garden overall.
Cooking, Storing and Using Mangelwurzel in the Kitchen
In terms of flavour, mangelwurzel sits somewhere between beetroot and turnip. It is less sweet than beetroot, with a gentle earthiness that allows it to absorb other flavours easily. The texture depends greatly on when it is harvested, smaller, younger roots are tender and ideal for most culinary uses, while larger roots can become coarse and are better suited to slow cooking, soups or mashing. The leaves are also edible and highly nutritious, similar to chard or spinach and can be used in much the same way.
Preparation is simple but important. Roots should be thoroughly washed, peeled, and trimmed, especially if they are large or fibrous. Cutting them into smaller pieces ensures even cooking. Leaves should be washed and if mature, stripped from tougher stems before use.
In the kitchen, mangelwurzel is remarkably adaptable.
Boiling and mashing is perhaps the most traditional method, producing a soft, comforting side dish that pairs well with butter and seasoning.
Roasting is another excellent option, bringing out a deeper, slightly sweeter flavour and creating a pleasing texture.
It also works well in soups and stews, where it absorbs surrounding flavours and adds substance to the dish, ideal for colder months.
Even simple pan frying with onions and herbs can produce a satisfying result. The leaves can be sautéed or added to soups, offering an additional crop from the same plant.
One of the greatest strengths of mangelwurzel is its excellent storage potential. After harvest, the roots can be kept for weeks in a cool, dark place, or much longer if stored traditionally in damp sand or sawdust in a frost free shed or cellar. This makes it an ideal Winter vegetable. It can also be frozen after blanching, allowing it to be used later in soups or stews without loss of quality.
Its mild flavour also makes it suitable for more creative uses, such as grating into savoury bakes or incorporating into rustic recipes. For those interested in traditional preservation, it can even be fermented in a similar way to beetroot.
Mangelwurzel is a highly productive and resilient crop that fits well into Scottish gardens. Its tolerance of cool temperatures, ability to grow in a variety of soils, and dual purpose nature make it an excellent choice for both traditional and modern growers.
Whether grown for culinary use, animal feed, or simply as part of a diverse garden system, this historic root vegetable still remains a valuable crop that can once again become a staple in Scottish gardens, offering both practicality and productivity throughout the year.
Katrina & Clayton
Katrina & Clayton live with their family in East Ayrshire in Scotland and share their daily life in the garden on instagram @buildingfoodforest_scotland. They practice permaculture principles, reducing & repurposing waste whenever they can. Katrina shows how home educating in nature has helped Clayton thrive.
Clayton Completed The Grow and Learn Course with the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society in 2022. This year he will be completing Level 2 Nurture Course. Clayton is 16, Autistic, Non Verbal & has been Home Educated for the last 6yrs. Both Katrina and husband Peter have studied the Permaculture Design Course PDC and PDC Pro over the last 5yrs, developing their garden from grass to an ongoing food forest.
They have featured on BBC Beechgrove Gardens, Gardeners World Magazine and write for Scotland Grows Magazine. Katrina has a series of children’s story books out following the life of Clayton in the garden. Available at Amazon.
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What a brilliant and informative post! I shall be definitely growing these this year, so for me the advice , not only on growing, but on cooking too, is invaluable. Thank you Katrina .
I run a plant based skincare company in the Scottish Borders and use your products on a regular basis as we grow our own botanicals, we just might have to create a Mangelwurzel soap!