2014
SE5919 : Bolting sugar beet
taken 10 years ago, near to Balne, North Yorkshire, England
Bolting sugar beet
Sugar beet is generally bred so that it doesn't bolt. In its first year it produces the root which is harvested for its sugar content. Some beet is retained for a second year in which it will flower (bolt) and produce seed. Sometimes however it will bolt in its first year, usually due to unusual weather conditions. The recent sustained above average temperatures might be sufficient to induce bolting but it would only be seen in a few plants and not a whole field like this. I therefore conclude that this field is being grown for seed. Otherwise there will be a very unhappy farmer who will see the sugar yield from his crop dramatically reduced as a result of the plants putting all their energy into producing seed rather than sugar laden roots..
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