How to apply boron to beets?

[escape]

Apparently beets like boron. I should have applied it prior to putting the seeds in, but I didn't. The seedlings are now about 2 inches tall. Is it OK to just mix in some borax in water and just water them from the top or will that harm the leaves?

Thanks.

 

[NigelJ]

Boron is an essential nutrient for plants and deficiency can lead to hollow or rotting centres in the beet. Also helps cauliflowers form tight heads and brussels form tight sprouts.
I would apply a dilute solution of borax and water it on. Don't know American units and dosage rate. I apply a light scattering of sodium borate before planting out brassicas and rake it in.
Many liquid fertilisers and foliar feed will contain boron.

 

[escape]

Thanks for the response. This is for a 12" container, so I need to be careful as too much boron can be deadly.

Good suggestion on fertilizers. I just checked my water soluble 20-20-20 fertilizer, and it does list a small amount of boron (0.02%).

CLASSIC ONLINE STORE | JR Peters

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[headfullofbees]

Your soil is likely to contain plenty, as Boron is a micro-nutrient.
If you do wish to add some to make sure, chicken manure pellets are a far better solution than 20-20-20, which, if you use it regularly, will kill your soil.

 

[escape]

Your soil is likely to contain plenty, as Boron is a micro-nutrient.
If you do wish to add some to make sure, chicken manure pellets are a far better solution than 20-20-20, which, if you use it regularly, will kill your soil.

I'm using potting mix. According to the manufacturer (Miracle Gro), it does not contain any boron.

I will check out chicken manure pellets - thanks.