The sugarbeet root is composed of 70-80% water. Moisture stress during the growing season can limit yields. Sugarbeets require 25 inches of water per year for optimum development. Withholding water 2-3 weeks prior to harvest will help to increase sugar percentage. With proper applications of nitrogen fertilizer, you should never have to use excess water for nitrogen management. In areas where excess water may be a factor, select soils with good surface and tile drainage.

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