If you’re wondering when to plant beets in NC, you’ve come to the right place. Getting the timing right is the first step to a succesful harvest of sweet, earthy roots and tasty greens.
North Carolina’s long growing season and varied climate zones offer two excellent planting windows for beets. This guide will walk you through the optimal schedule for your area, along with simple tips for planting, care, and harvesting.
When to Plant Beets in NC
Beets are a cool-season crop, thriving in the milder temperatures of spring and fall. They can tolerate a light frost, which actually makes them sweeter. The key is to avoid the peak summer heat, which causes them to become woody and bitter.
For most of North Carolina, the ideal planting times are:
- Spring: Plant 2-4 weeks before your last average spring frost date.
- Fall: Plant from late July through early September, aiming for a harvest before your first hard fall frost.
Understanding NC’s Climate Zones
North Carolina is divided into three main USDA plant hardiness zones, which affects your specific timing.
Western NC (Mountains – Zones 6b-7a)
This region has the shortest growing season and coolest summers. Spring planting can begin in late March to mid-April. For fall, start seeds in late July or early August to ensure maturity.
Piedmont Region (Central NC – Zones 7b-8a)
This is the most flexible area. You can plant beets in early to mid-March for spring. For a fall crop, sow seeds from early August to early September. The mild fall often allows for extended harvest.
Coastal Plain & Eastern NC (Zones 8a-8b)
With the longest growing season and earliest springs, you can plant as early as February. However, watch for soggy soil. Fall planting is best done from late August through September, as the soil begins to cool from the summer heat.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Once you’ve got your dates set, follow these steps for the best results.
1. Choosing a Site and Preparing Soil
Beets need full sun, at least 6 hours daily. They prefer loose, well-draining soil free of rocks and clumps, which can cause misshapen roots. Work the soil to a depth of 8-12 inches.
Mix in 2-4 inches of compost or aged manure. Beets are moderate feeders but require consistent potassium for root development. A light application of a balanced organic fertilizer at planting is beneficial.
2. How to Sow Beet Seeds
Beet “seeds” are actually small dried fruit clusters containing multiple seeds. This means you’ll often get several seedlings from one planting.
- Create shallow rows about 1/2 inch deep.
- Sow seeds 1 inch apart. Don’t worry about perfect spacing yet.
- Cover lightly with soil and water gently but thoroughly.
- Seeds should germinate in 5-14 days, depending on soil temperature.
3. Thinning Your Seedlings
This is a crucial step many gardeners skip. Once seedlings are 3-4 inches tall, you must thin them to prevent overcrowding.
- Gently pull out the extra seedlings, leaving the strongest ones.
- Aim for a final spacing of 3-4 inches between plants.
- Don’t waste the thinnings! The young leaves are delicious in salads.
Caring for Your Beet Plants
Consistent care is simple but makes a huge difference in your harvest.
Watering and Mulching
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. About 1 inch of water per week is a good goal. Inconsistent watering leads to tough, cracked roots.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch (straw, shredded leaves) around your plants. This keeps the soil cool, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds. It’s especially helpful for the fall crop.
Fertilizing for Success
If your soil was prepared well, little extra fertilizer is needed. A side-dressing of a low-nitrogen fertilizer when roots begin to swell can boost growth. To much nitrogen encourages leafy tops at the expense of root development.
Managing Pests and Problems
Beets are relatively trouble-free. Watch for leaf miners (which create squiggly lines on leaves) and flea beetles. Row covers are an effective physical barrier. Rotating your crops each year helps prevent soil-borne diseases.
Harvesting and Storing Your Beets
You can start harvesting beet greens early, just take a few leaves from each plant. For the roots, they’re typically ready 50-70 days after planting, depending on the variety.
- Harvest when roots are 1-3 inches in diameter for the most tender beets.
- Loosen the soil with a garden fork and gently lift the plant.
- Twist off the tops, leaving about an inch of stem to prevent bleeding during cooking. Don’t throw the greens away—they’re a nutritious bonus crop!
For storage, keep unwashed roots in a plastic bag in your refrigerator crisper drawer for several weeks. For long-term storage, they can be kept in a cool, humid place like a root cellar.
Recommended Beet Varieties for NC
Many varieties perform well here. Consider these reliable choices:
- Detroit Dark Red: A classic, reliable heirloom with deep red roots.
- Golden Beet: Sweet, mild, and doesn’t “bleed” like red beets.
- Chioggia: Beautiful candy-striped interior, excellent for salads.
- Cylindra: Long, cylindrical roots that are easy to slice for pickling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I plant beets in the summer in North Carolina?
It’s not recommended. Summer heat stresses the plants, leading to poor root development and bitterness. Stick to spring and fall for the best quality.
How late can you plant beets in North Carolina?
For a fall crop, aim to get seeds in the ground by mid-September in the Piedmont and Coastal areas, and by late August in the Mountains. This gives them enough time to mature before a hard freeze.
Can I grow beets in containers?
Absolutely. Choose a pot at least 12 inches deep and wide. Use a quality potting mix and ensure it has good drainage. Container plants may need watering more frequently.
Why are my beet roots small or not forming?
The most common causes are overcrowding (not thinning), inadequate sunlight, poor soil (too clay-heavy or rocky), or nutrient deficiencies. A soil test can provide valuable insights for your garden.
What are good companion plants for beets?
Onions, garlic, lettuce, and bush beans are excellent companions. Avoid planting beets near pole beans, as they can inhibit each others growth.
With the right timing and these simple steps, you can enjoy a bountiful beet harvest from your North Carolina garden. Remember, the sweetest beets come from the cool seasons, so plan your planting dates accordingly and get ready to enjoy this versatile and colorful vegetable.