Over the last number of years, the size of the beet market has remained stable since it is
such a specialist crop to produce. However, there are changing trends within the market
regarding the varieties grown. Growers are more aware of the different varieties available
and are choosing more carefully.

One important factor is maturity, and many growers are
looking for early maturing varieties that can be harvested sooner to free up land for other
crops. Delicante is one such variety increasing in popularity because it can achieve high
yields quicker than most and be ready for harvest well before Christmas.

Despite fodder beet types holding the most acres grown, there is increasing interest in sugar
beet types like Gahan. This shift is thanks to advances in genetics closing the traditional
yield gap between fodder and sugar beets. More importantly, sugar beet varieties tend to
have a higher DM content and thus have greater feed value per kg than the ‘bigger’ fodder
beet types.