Beets

Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris

Botanical Name

Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris

Hardiness

Annual

Fruit

Roots in shades of red and gold; foliage (Swiss chard) with a rainbow of stem colors

Light

Full sun to part shade

Soil

Moist, well-drained

Planting and Care

Sow outdoors 2-3 before last expected frost; sow seeds .5 -1 inch deep, 2-6 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart, thin to 6-12 inch spacing. Successive plant thru late summer. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Beets perform best in cool weather in soil that is both well weeded and has consistent moisture. Harvest both the roots & the foliage.

Harvesting

Dig or pull beets when the root is full size. Proper thinning and well-drained soil are important for proper root development. Roots will develop rapidly and should be harvested before they become larger than 3 inches in diameter to avoid becoming tough.

Problems

Aphids, leafminers, leaf spot, downy mildew

Varieties to Consider

'Ruby Queen' AAS winner, round, uniform shape
'Sweetheart' - foliage great for greens, very sweet roots
'Red Ace' - early variety, heat tolerant, sweet flavor
'Golden' - early golden variety, sweet flavor