Beets
UC Links
How to grow
Pest management
The Basics
When to plant
- Direct seed: March–April and August–September; possibly February, May, and October
- Transplant: February–May and September–October; possibly June
Harvest window
- About 45–65 days in spring/summer, depending on variety
- Begin harvesting when the roots are at least 1 inch wide, harvesting alternate plants to allow remaining plants to grow up to 3 inches wide.
- If left too long in the ground, beets may get tough or bolt (send up a seed stalk).
- Fall/winter plantings take longer to size up. They will hold well through the winter, but tend to bolt when the weather warms in the spring.
Care overview
- Beet 'seeds' are actually a lumpy cluster of seeds. Since several of the seeds might germinate, it's important to thin to a single seedling so that the plant can form its large root.
- When thinning, cut the stems of the excess seedlings rather than pulling, because pulling might damage the roots of the seedling you're trying to keep. The thinnings can be eaten as greens.
- Small leaves may be harvested for salads and older leaves can be cooked as greens.
- It's common for the 'shoulders' of beets to grow above soil level, and is not a problem.
Common pests
The most common pest for beets is leaf miner. The larvae leave silvery trails in the leaves. Young seedlings can be protected with row cover. Clip off and remove older infested leaves.
Additional links
Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*
| Bull's Blood, OP | Deep reddish-purple leaves are popular as baby greens in salads. Roots display pretty pink rings when sliced crossways. 8–12 inches tall. Plant 4–6 inches apart. |
| Chioggia, OP | Old Italian heirloom beet known for its red & white candy–striped rings and mild, sweet flavor. Named after a fishing town in Italy and pronounced ‘kee–OH–jaw’. 8–12 inches tall. Plant 4–6 inches apart. |
| Detroit Dark Red, OP | Popular heirloom beet, uniform and smooth, with sweet red flesh and tasty 14-inch tops for greens. 10–14 inches tall. Plant 4–6 inches apart. |
| Formanova, OP (also called Cylindra) | Tasty, fine-textured beet in a convenient long shape that is easy to peel and slice into rounds. Delicious leaves. 8–12 inches tall. Plant 4–6 inches apart. |
| Touchstone Gold, OP | Sweet golden beets are mild and tasty. Beautiful in salads. Greens are delicious and mild. 8–12 inches tall. Plant 4–6 inches apart. |
Other recommended varieties: Albina Vereduna, Golden
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.