Cut off the tops of the beets one inch above the roots. Do not allow them to freeze. The most frequent cause for beet plants failing to develop roots is overcrowding from improper thinning. A special vigorously growing variety, Green Top Bunching, is excellent for producing greens. Crosby Egyptian and Early Wonder also can be used for greens.
Swiss chard is a heavy producer of greens very similar to beet greens.
Beets can be harvested at any stage of development, from the thinning to the fully mature stage at about 2 inches in diameter. Thinnings can be eaten raw, tops included, in salads or roasted. Beets are high in natural sugar and roasting brings out the natural sweetness. Beets vary in color and shape based on variety. The most common is the deep maroon globe-shaped beet.