By Zenny
Choose the Right Spot Pick a sunny location with well-draining, loose soil to allow roots to expand easily.
Prep the Soil Work in compost or aged manure. Beets prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
Sow at the Right Time Plant seeds 2–4 weeks before the last frost or in late summer for a fall crop.
Plant Properly Sow seeds ½ inch deep, 1 inch apart, in rows 12 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 3–4 inches apart.
Keep Soil Moist Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Dryness leads to woody roots.
Feed Lightly Beets don’t need much fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas to encourage root development over leafy growth.
Watch for Pests Keep an eye out for leaf miners and flea beetles. Use row covers or neem oil if needed.
Harvest at the Right Time Harvest when roots are 1.5–3 inches wide—too large, and they get tough. Don’t forget beet greens are edible too!