Beets may be seeded as early in spring as the ground can be worked. Sow again and again every three weeks to make sure you have a steady supply of young, tender beets all season long.
Beets are well adapted to grow in many regions. Beets are fairly tolerant of heat and also resistant to cold. But beets will not withstand severe freezing weather.
Good beet quality depends on quick growth. Plant beets in humus-rich, well-drained soil. Apply lime to strongly acidic soils if a soil test shows the need.
Midsummer heat and drought can interfere with seed germination. If sowing seeds in midsummer, keep the soil damp until the plants are up.
Beet seed consists of small balls, each containing several seeds. Cover seeds to a depth of about an inch.
Plant beet seeds in the cool time of the year; they are best grown in spring and fall.
Grow beets for their sweet roots or earthy-flavored greens. Beets are most flavorful and colorful when grown in cool soil.
Beets are a cool-weather crop that can be tricky to grow from seed. Many gardeners direct sow beet seeds right into the garden bed. However, you can get a head start on the season by starting beet seeds indoors.
Growing beets indoors allows you to extend the harvest, produce earlier crops, and get higher germination rates. But beets do have some special considerations when it comes to indoor seed starting
Here is an overview of how to start beet seeds indoors successfully, along with tips for transplanting beet seedlings into the garden
Is It Possible to Start Beet Seeds Indoors?
Yes, you can certainly start beet seeds indoors if you follow a few guidelines:
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Use deep containers or cell packs. Beets have long taproots that need room to develop.
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Allow 4-6 weeks from sowing seeds to transplanting outdoors. Beets grow slowly at first.
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Provide bright light for strong seedlings. Beets need at least 12-14 hours under grow lights or sun.
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Transplant carefully to minimize root disturbance. Handle beet seedlings gently.
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Time indoor planting so beets mature in cool weather. Beets prefer temperatures below 80°F.
With extra care taken at each step, you can achieve excellent results from starting beets indoors. Just be prepared for a longer timeline than quick-growing crops like lettuce or radish.
When to Start Beet Seeds Indoors
Beets grow best when temperatures are between 60-85°F. Below 50°F, germination can be spotty. Above 80°F, beets may bolt to seed prematurely.
To target peak growing conditions, follow this timeline for indoor seed starting:
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In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected spring frost.
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In warm winter climates, start seeds in late winter for an early spring crop.
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For a fall crop, sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your first expected fall frost.
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Stagger plantings every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest.
Refer to your local frost dates and average seasonal temperatures to determine the optimal indoor sowing time in your area.
How to Start Beet Seeds Indoors Successfully
Follow these steps for the best results from indoor-sown beets:
Use Deep Containers
Beet seeds produce a long central taproot along with smaller lateral roots. To accommodate this growth habit, choose containers or cell packs that are at least 2-3 inches deep. Avoid shallow seed starting trays.
Tall individual pots, cut-down milk cartons, yogurt cups, or newspaper pots all work well for beets. Make sure containers have drainage holes.
###Plant Seeds Close Together
Sow 2-4 seeds together in each container or cell. Beet seeds often have spotty germination rates, so planting multiples boosts your chance of success.
Plant to a depth of 1⁄2-1 inch. Gently cover seeds and water soil after planting. Keep moist, not soaked, as seeds germinate.
Provide Bright Light
Place seeded containers in a sunny window or under grow lights. Beets require 12-14 hours of direct light per day for robust growth.
Keep lights 2-4 inches above the seedlings. Raise them gradually as plants grow. Insufficient light results in weak, leggy beets.
Thin Seedlings Carefully
As seedlings emerge, snip off weaker ones with scissors, leaving the 1-2 strongest in each container. Avoid pulling seedlings, as this disturbs delicate roots. Thin gradually over 2-3 weeks.
Letting plants become overcrowded stunts growth. Give beet seedlings 1-3 inches between each plant.
Transplant Outside at 4-6 Weeks
Beet seedlings need 4-6 weeks of growth indoors to reach ideal size for transplanting outside. Slow growth is normal for beets at this stage.
Once seedlings have 2-4 true leaves, harden them off for 7-10 days before transplanting into garden soil. Handle root balls gently when planting.
How to Grow Strong Beet Seedlings Indoors
Maintaining optimal moisture, nutrients, and growing conditions gives your indoor beet seedlings their best start. Here are some tips:
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Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow pots to partially dry out between waterings.
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Feed seedlings weekly with a half-strength liquid fertilizer once true leaves appear.
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Ensure indoor growing area has temperatures between 65-75°F for cool weather crops like beets.
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Provide 14-16 hours of light daily. Supplement natural light with grow lights as needed.
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Gently brush tops of seedlings daily to encourage sturdy stems.
With attentive care while they are indoors, your beet seedlings will grow into healthy transplants ready to flourish in the garden.
When and How to Transplant Beet Seedlings Outdoors
Timing is important when it comes to moving started beets into the garden:
Wait Until Soil Warms Up
Beets grow best in cool conditions. Transplant them when soil temperatures reach at least 50°F.
Planting too early into cold ground slows growth. Wait a few weeks after your last expected spring frost date.
Harden Off Seedlings First
Set beet seedlings outdoors in a sheltered spot for 7-10 days before transplanting. Gradually increase their exposure to wind, sun, and changing temperatures.
Hardening off helps reduce transplant shock. Continue watering and fertilizing plants during this period.
Transplant in Cooler Weather
Ideally, transplant beets either in early morning or late evening when temperatures are coolest. This prevents stressing seedlings.
Plant on a cloudy day if possible. Water transplants well and provide shade for the first few days until established.
Take Care With Roots
Carefully dig out beet seedlings with minimal root disturbance. Gently separate and spread out tangled root balls.
Plant beet seedlings at the same depth they were growing in containers, burying the stem up to the lowest leaves. Firm soil gently around roots.
Common Problems When Starting Beets Indoors
Here are some potential issues and how to avoid them:
Leggy Growth
If seedlings stretch and become leggy indoors, increase their daily light levels. Keep grow lights closer to plants.
Damping Off
Fungal disease causes seedling stems to rot at soil line. Avoid overwatering. Allow pots to partially dry out before rewatering.
Slow Growth
Beets naturally grow slowly as seedlings. But inadequate light, nutrients, or cool temperatures also limit growth. Optimize all conditions.
Poor Transplant Survival
Raising beet seedlings too long indoors increases transplant shock. Move them outdoors at 4-6 weeks for best results.
With attentive care while they are indoors, your beet seedlings will grow into healthy transplants ready to flourish in the garden.
Tips for Growing Beets from Transplants
Once safely planted in the garden, beets will take off in the right conditions:
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Space transplants 8-12 inches apart in rows or beds for full size growth.
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Keep soil consistently moist 1-2 inches deep. Irregular watering causes root forking.
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Side dress transplants monthly with a balanced fertilizer. Beets are heavy feeders.
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Use row covers at planting to retain soil warmth and moisture. Remove once plants establish.
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Harvest beets while roots are still small and tender, ideally when 1-2 inches diameter.
With extra care taken at each step, you can achieve excellent results from starting beets indoors. Just be prepared for a longer timeline than quick-growing crops like lettuce or radish.
Troubleshooting Poor Growth in Transplanted Beets
If transplanted beet seedlings fail to thrive, here are some common factors:
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Cold soil – Beets grow slowly below 50°F. Wait to transplant until soil thoroughly warms in spring.
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Hot temperatures – Beets bolt and become woody in summer heat. Maintain cool conditions.
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Compacted soil – Loose, crumbly soil is best. Amend clay and break up dense ground before planting.
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Irregular watering – Consistent moisture is key. Allowing soil to dry out stresses roots.
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Nutrient deficiencies – Beets are heavy feeders. Fertilize regularly and avoid depleted soils.
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Pests/disease – Cercospora leaf spot, beet curly top virus, root maggots and other issues can weaken plants.
How Long do Beets Take to Mature After Transplanting?
On average, you can expect the following timeline after transplanting beet seedlings:
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2-3 weeks – Plants establish roots and resume active growth
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4-6 weeks – Beets reach harvesting size of 1-3 inches diameter
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8 weeks – Average total time from indoor seed to mature beet ready for picking
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10-12 weeks – Larger beets reach full size for storage or seed saving
The timeline depends on variety, growing conditions, and desired harvest size. But generally count on 2 months seed to harvest if starting beets indoors.
Can Beets Be Re-Transplanted?
Beets do not respond well to being transplanted multiple times. Their long taproot is easily damaged if disturbed after it begins developing.
For best results, sow seeds in containers that are 2-3 inches deep. Let them grow 4-6 weeks, then transplant directly into garden soil without re-potting.
If you must re-transplant due to issues like damping off disease, take extreme care. Handle seedlings delicately, minimize root disturbance, and transplant immediately into final growing site.
But try to avoid re-transplanting beets whenever possible. It slows growth and risks permanently stunting plants.
Are Beets Better Started Indoors or Directly Seeded?
While indoor seed starting offers some benefits, many gardeners find direct seeding beets into outdoor soil works well.
Benefits of direct seeding include:
- No transplant shock to disturb roots
- Less time and effort than indoor starting
- Can sow succession crops every few weeks
- Natural season timing for ideal growth
Benefits of indoor seed starting include:
- Earlier harvests by 4-6 weeks
- Higher, more reliable germination rates
- Better spacing and population control
- Head start on growth before planting outside
Weigh the pros and cons of each method to decide what fits best with your gardening goals and schedule. Both can produce excellent beet crops if done correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting Beet Seeds Indoors
Here are answers to some common beet seed starting questions:
What size containers should I use to start beets indoors?
Use containers at least 2-3 inches deep to accommodate taproot growth. Individual cells, pots, or cut-off cartons work well.
How long before transplanting should I start beet seeds indoors?
Plan on 4-6 weeks from seeding to transplanting beets outside in the garden.
What temperature do beet seeds need to germinate?
Beets germinate best at soil temperatures between 60-85°F. They do poorly below 50°F.
Is it better to start multiple beet seeds in one container?
Yes, sow 2-4 seeds per cell or pot and thin to the strongest seedling. This boosts germination rates.
How much light do beet seedlings need per day?
Beets require a minimum of 12-14 hours under grow lights or direct sun for sturdy growth.
Can beet seedlings be re-transplanted if needed?
Avoid re-transplanting beets, as their taproot is easily damaged. Start them in final containers instead.
How long until I can harvest beets after transplanting seedlings?
Expect to harvest smaller beets 4-6 weeks after transplanting. Larger roots may take 8-10 weeks.
By following the right planting timeline and providing optimal care, beets can be grown successfully indoors from seed to harvest. Just give them the patience they require in those early weeks of growth.
Planting for spring and summer harvest
Plant beet seeds in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, about two to three weeks before the last frost. Even though the soil can be as cool as 45oF (7oC), beets will grow best when it is about 50oF (10oC). For successive crops, plant beets every 10 days. Young beet plants can handle frost, but if it gets too cold, they will die without making roots.
- Direct-sow in a plastic tunnel or cold frame 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost in the spring.
- Direct-sow in the garden two to four weeks before the last frost in the spring.
- Sow crops that will grow next every two weeks or so after the last frost.
Beets sowing and planting tips
- Start beets from seed or transplants.
- Seeds are viable for 4 years.
- About four weeks before the last frost, plant seeds in the garden. Beets can be started indoors, but it’s hard to successfully move them to the garden, just like with most root vegetables.
- If you started the beetroot indoors and then transplanted it, give it two more weeks to mature because the roots will be damaged during transplanting. When transplanting, cut off the long thread tip of the beetroot.
- Plant seeds in holes that are only ½ inch (8 mm) deep, and make sure to heel or stamp the soil down firmly. Beets often don’t germinate when the seeds don’t get enough contact with the soil.
- Plant seeds 2 inches apart, then thin them to 4 inches (5–10 cm) apart for big storage beets. Grow them closer together for baby beets or greens.
- Beet seeds are actually a group of seeds—a seed ball made up of two or three separate seeds. Once they germinate, the seedlings will need to be thinned.
- Space rows 12 inches (30 cm) apart.
- Soaking the seed in water before planting it can help it germinate. Soaking breaks down the seed coat, which has a chemical that stops germination.
- Plant seeds at dusk or on a cool, cloudy day to help them grow.
- Sow seed in loose, fertile soil. Putting aged compost on planting beds before planting will feed the soil and help it hold on to water.
- If the temperature stays around 77°F (25°C), the seeds should sprout in 5 to 8 days.
- Plant more every three weeks to get a steady harvest, but make sure you plant at the right time so the crop doesn’t get too big when it’s hot outside.
- When it’s in the 60s°F (mid-teens Celsius) during the day, beets grow best.
- Beets prefer a soil pH range of at least 6. 0 but not greater than 7. 5.
- Grow beets in full sun for best yield—tolerate partial shade.
- If spinach or Swiss chard has just grown nearby, don’t plant beets there.
- Use an organic fertilizer, like fish emulsion half-strength, to feed the plants.
- Common pest enemies are aphids and flea beetles. If you plant seedlings, cover them with a cloche, plastic tunnel, or cold frame for two to three weeks to keep bugs and cold air out.
- Place. Beets will grow in full sun or light shade.
- Soil to grow beets. Beets like loose, well-worked soil that is full of organic matter. Remove any rocks, dirt clods, or roots from the planting bed that could make the beets grow badly. Work compost into the soil at planting time. Beets prefer alkaline soil over acidic soil, pH of 6. 5 to 7. 5.
- Spacing beets. Plant beet seeds 12 to 18 inches apart, ½ to 1 inch deep. Spread beet seedlings out 3 to 4 inches apart in wide beds or dense plantings. Beet seeds come in clusters. Each cluster is about the size of a pea seed and can make several seedlings. Seeds generally germinate in 4 to 10 days. The seedlings may not emerge at the same time. Thin seedlings when they are about an inch tall and have their first true leaves. Seedlings do not transplant well. Thinned seedlings can be added to salads.
- Planting beets with corn, leek, lettuce, radishes, bush beans, and cabbage family plants is called interplanting.
- Container growing beets. Beets can be grown in pots because they grow close to the ground. Allow 3 to 4 inches between plants. Sow beets in a container at 8 inches deep. In a round container, sow the seeds in concentric circles.
- Watering beets. Do not let the soil around beets dry out; keep it wet. Mulch will help keep the soil moist. In hot weather, beetroots can become woody. A lack of moisture will leave beets stringy and tough.
- Feeding beets. Before planting beets, work compost into the soil. In the middle of the growing season, add compost to the sides of the beets.