Improving Sugarbeet Storability

Storing sugarbeets, in piles, under ambient con- ditions, in production areas with mild climates, allows for longer and more productive factory campaigns. In southern Idaho, approximately one-third of the roots are directly processed, one-third are held in short-term storage, and one-third are held in long-term storage (greater than 90 days). Some beets in long-term storage will be held up to 150 days, leaving roots sus- ceptible to a number of negative influences. Extreme temperature fluctuations, excessive moisture, restricted air flow (snow, soil, weeds, and rotted roots), microbial development, res- piration rate, and buildup of impurities can all negatively impact sucrose recovery. In addition to disease and water-related problems in the field, wounding during harvest and transport will also negatively influence beet storability; therefore, saving sucrose in storage begins with cultivar selection for disease resistance and storability along with good field and harvest management