Planting advice for the USA & Canada, Zone 8a

January: Do not grow.

February: Start undercover in seed trays.

March: Transplant 4-6 week old seedlings.

April: Plant seed directly into garden.

May: Do not grow.

June: Do not grow.

July: Do not grow.

August: Plant seed directly into garden.

September: Do not grow.

October: Do not grow.

November: Do not grow.

December: Do not grow.

Space Plants: 10cm (4") apart.

Harvest In: 10-12 weeks.

Grows Best With: Arugula, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collard Greens, Kale, Lettuce, Onions.

Planting Beets

Beet seeds should be soaked in water overnight to help with planting. Plant seeds 1cm (1/2") deep, 10cm (4") apart with 30cm (12") between rows. Beets prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter, and thrive in full sun.

Growing Beets

Beet seeds are actually clusters of "true" seeds, so each seed planted may produce 2-4 separate seedlings. Once plants are roughly 10cm (4") tall, thin each cluster to leave only the strongest seedling remaining. To avoid disturbing the roots, snip the greens off at ground level, which can then be used for cooking. Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not wet, to prevent the beets from developing a woody texture. Beets can crack if they get too dry, which may introduce rot and damage your plants.

Harvesting Beets

Beets are ready for harvest once they are roughly the size of a golf ball (depending on the variety), but will have a sweeter flavour if harvested earlier. Loosen the soil around the beetroot and gently pull it from the garden. Beet greens are also edible and can be harvested until the leaves exceed approximately 15cm (6") and become too tough. Only harvest 1-2 leaves per plant, as beets will need enough leaves to fully form.

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