Growing Beetroot, also Beets

Beta vulgaris : Amaranthaceae / the amaranth family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    P P P P P          

(Best months for growing Beetroot in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 45°F and 77°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 8 - 12 inches apart
  • Harvest in 7-10 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Onions, Silverbeet (Swiss Chard), Lettuce, Cabbage, Dwarf Beans, Dill, Peas. Strawberries
  • Avoid growing close to: Asparagus, Carrots, Sweetcorn, Spinach

Your comments and tips

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14 Jan 23, Jen (USA - Zone 8a climate)
I try to thin my small seedlings when they are about 1” to 2”. I’d space the plants as directed 4” apart if you want beets, by snipping them with scissors. That way you don’t disturb the root. I often remove as many as I keep.
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18 Nov 22, Adilene (USA - Zone 10a climate)
You should thin them early on and make sure your soil isn't compacted.
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06 Aug 20, Anonymous (USA - Zone 9b climate)
Read how long it takes for beetroot to grow. No use worrying if they are only 5 weeks old if it takes 10 weeks to produce good size beets. Also don't over feed with too much nitrogen.
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02 Oct 19, (USA - Zone 9b climate)
Very Impressed. Best site I have ever come across/ Thank you,
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Showing 21 - 24 of 24 comments
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I planted beetroot tops which took a long time to grow but left them in the pot as the leaves looked quite decorative. I pulled one out to see if there was fruit on it but found that it had not ground round but in a tuber shape, the whole pot was full of beetroot tubers. I cooked it up thinking it would be woody but it lovely and tender and full of flavour. Is that normal for beetroot.

- Eileen Looker

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