When to Plant Beets in NC

Beets are a popular root vegetable that is easy to grow and packed with nutrition. North Carolina is a great place to cultivate this nutritious vegetable because of its warm weather and long growing season. However, it is important to know when to plant beets to ensure a successful harvest. In this article, we will explore the best time to plant beets in NC.

Spring Planting

If you want to plant beets in the spring, it is best to start planting as soon as the ground can be worked in March or April. The soil should be at least 40掳F for seeds to germinate. Beets can also be planted later in the spring if the soil temperature is above 50掳F. However, since beets need around 60 days from planting to maturity, the earlier you start planting, the better.

Summer Planting

Beets can also be planted in the summer, but it is essential to choose the right time to plant to get a successful crop. It is best to plant beets in the summer after the last frost has passed or around mid-summer. Make sure to provide enough water, especially during hot and dry weather. Also, be aware that beets do not tolerate high temperatures, so it is advisable to plant them in a partially shaded spot.

Fall Planting

The best time to plant beets in NC is during the fall. Fall planting allows beets to avoid the high temperatures of summer and gives them enough time to mature before the first frost. The ideal planting time for fall is 8 to 10 weeks before the first frost date. In most parts of North Carolina, the first frost falls in the middle of October, so planting between August and September is best for fall planting.

Tips for Planting Beets

Below are some tips to keep in mind if you want to successfully plant beets in North Carolina:

Beets grow best in a soil pH range of 6.0 to 6.8.

Ensure that the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.

Plant beet seeds around 1 inch apart, and thin them out to about 3 inches apart when the seedlings start germinating.

Water regularly and mulch the soil to reduce weed growth.

Harvest beets when they are around 2 to 3 inches in diameter, but you can also harvest them later if you prefer larger beets.

Conclusion

Beets are a nutritious and easy-to-grow vegetable that can thrive in North Carolina's climate. Knowing when to plant beets is essential to ensure a bountiful harvest. For spring planting, start as soon as the ground can be worked. For summer planting, it's best to avoid the high heat by planting after the last frost or mid-summer in a partially shaded area. However, fall planting is generally the best time for growing beets in NC. Keep in mind the tips mentioned above when planting beets to ensure a successful crop.