When to plant beet
Beet takes 50–70 days to mature, spaced 4" apart at 0.5" deep. Direct-sow only — does not transplant well.
Planting dates by USDA zone
| Zone | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 3 | April 27 – June 22 | July 13 – August 3 |
| Zone 4 | April 17 – June 12 | July 3 – July 24 |
| Zone 5 | April 3 – May 29 | June 19 – July 10 |
| Zone 6 | March 18 – May 13 | June 3 – June 24 |
| Zone 7 | March 4 – April 29 | May 20 – June 10 |
| Zone 8 | February 16 – April 12 | May 3 – May 24 |
| Zone 9 | January 18 – March 14 | April 4 – April 25 |
| Zone 10 | January 2 – February 27 | March 19 – April 9 |
Dates are averages — adjust ±1–2 weeks for your microclimate. Need your exact dates? Enter your zip code below.
Get your personalized beet planting dates
Care tips
- Soak seeds overnight to speed germination.
- Thin clusters early — each 'seed' is multiple plants.
- Greens are edible at any stage.
Good companions
Onion, Lettuce, Cabbage.
Read more: Companion planting chart for vegetables
Track your beet harvest with BotaNotes
Log planting dates, get AI-powered care reminders, and journal every harvest. Free 15-day trial.
Frequently asked questions
When should I plant beet outdoors in zone 5?▾
In USDA zone 5, direct sow beet between April 3 and May 29, relative to the average last spring frost on May 1.
When should I plant beet outdoors in zone 6?▾
In USDA zone 6, direct sow beet between March 18 and May 13, relative to the average last spring frost on April 15.
When should I plant beet outdoors in zone 7?▾
In USDA zone 7, direct sow beet between March 4 and April 29, relative to the average last spring frost on April 1.
When should I plant beet outdoors in zone 8?▾
In USDA zone 8, direct sow beet between February 16 and April 12, relative to the average last spring frost on March 15.
How long does beet take to grow?▾
Beet typically takes 50–70 days to mature, with harvest beginning roughly 7–10 weeks after the last spring frost.