Moisture range
35–60%
Days to maturity
55–70
Light
Full sun
Growing Degree Units
950 · base 40°F
When to plant beets in your zone
Indoor-start, transplant and harvest dates calibrated to your climate.
Growing notes
UMD Extension ↗Beet seed is actually a fruit or seed ball with several embryos, so thinning is usually necessary when plants are 2 inches in height. Soaking seed in warm water for 24 hours before planting will aid germination.
Harvest signs
UMD Extension ↗Pull beetroots when they are 1 to 3 inches in diameter
▶Planting reference— Depth, spacing, light
Companions & antagonists
Plant near:OnionLettuceBrassica
Keep apart from:BeansMustard
Tip: Direct sow only - tap root doesn't tolerate transplanting.
Common questions
How much water does beets need?
Beets has middle-of-the-road water needs. Aim to keep soil moisture around 35–60%, letting the top inch dry slightly between waterings rather than staying soggy.
Can I grow beets in a raised bed or container?
Yes — beets does well in raised beds and is happy in a decent-sized container too, as long as drainage is good.
Does beets come back every year?
No — beets is an annual. It completes its life in one season, so you replant it each year.