Main points
- Plant beet seeds directly in the garden after the last frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 50°F.
- Water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches.
- Store harvested beets in a cool, dry place for up to a month.
Summertime is often synonymous with juicy tomatoes, vibrant peppers, and crisp cucumbers. However, don’t forget about those earthy, sweet beets! Though they’re often associated with cooler weather, with a little know-how, you can grow delicious beets even in the heat of summer.
Choosing the Right Beet Variety
The key to successful summer beet growing is selecting the right variety. Look for heat-tolerant beet varieties that mature quickly. Here are a few popular options:
- Early Wonder: This variety is known for its fast growth and sweet, tender roots.
- Detroit Dark Red: A classic choice, this variety is resistant to bolting (going to seed prematurely) and produces deep red beets.
- Golden Beet: This unique variety offers a beautiful golden color and a slightly milder flavor.
Preparing the Soil
Beets thrive in well-drained, loose soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Here’s how to prepare your garden bed for summer beet planting:
1. Amend the Soil: Mix in compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and add nutrients.
2. Till the Soil: Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches to break up any clumps and ensure good drainage.
3. Remove Weeds: Eliminate existing weeds to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
Planting Your Beet Seeds
- Timing: Plant beet seeds directly in the garden after the last frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 50°F.
- Spacing: Space beet seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.
- Depth: Plant seeds ½ inch deep.
- Watering: Water consistently after planting to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Providing Adequate Water
Beets need consistent moisture to grow properly. Here are some watering tips:
- Deep Watering: Water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches.
- Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot, so allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your beet plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Beet plants can be susceptible to pests and diseases, especially in hot, humid conditions.
- Common Pests: Aphids, leaf miners, and slugs can damage beet foliage.
- Common Diseases: Leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot can affect beet growth.
Control Measures:
- Handpicking: Remove pests like aphids and slugs by hand.
- Neem Oil: Spray plants with neem oil to deter pests and control fungal diseases.
- Crop Rotation: Rotate your beet crops annually to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases.
Harvesting Your Summer Beets
Beet roots are ready to harvest when they are about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Timing: Beets can be harvested 50-70 days after planting, depending on the variety.
- Harvesting: Use a garden trowel or hand fork to gently lift the beets from the soil.
- Storing: Store harvested beets in a cool, dry place for up to a month.
Enjoying Your Summer Beet Harvest
Freshly harvested beets are bursting with flavor and nutrients. Here are a few ways to enjoy your summer beet bounty:
- Roasted Beets: Toss beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 30-40 minutes.
- Beet Salad: Combine roasted beets with goat cheese, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a delicious and healthy salad.
- Beet Smoothies: Blend cooked beets with other fruits and vegetables for a nutritious and flavorful smoothie.
Beyond the Harvest: Tips for Next Season
- Save Seeds: If you’re happy with the variety you’ve grown, save seeds from your best beets for next season.
- Compost Leftovers: Compost beet tops and any leftover roots to enrich your soil for future plantings.
- Plan for Rotation: Plan your garden layout for next season, ensuring you rotate your beet crops to prevent disease and pest buildup.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I grow beets in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow beets in containers. Choose a container at least 12 inches deep and wide. Make sure to use a good quality potting mix and water regularly.
Q: What are the best companion plants for beets?
A: Beets are good companions for plants like lettuce, onions, and garlic.
Q: What are the signs of a successful beet harvest?
A: A successful beet harvest is characterized by plump, firm beets with smooth, unblemished skin. The leaves should be healthy and vibrant green.
Q: When is the best time to harvest beets?
A: The best time to harvest beets is when they reach the desired size, usually around 2-3 inches in diameter.
Q: Why are my beets bolting?
A: Beets can bolt (go to seed prematurely) due to stress, such as hot weather, drought, or overcrowding. To prevent bolting, plant heat-tolerant varieties and provide adequate water and spacing.
With a little planning and care, you can enjoy the sweet, earthy taste of beets all summer long. So get out there and start growing!
