What spacing do beets need?

Thin to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart; each seed cluster produces multiple seedlings that must be thinned.

How much does a beet weigh?

A garden beet harvested at ideal size yields about 0.2 lb (roughly 3 oz) per root.

When should beets be planted?

Direct sow 4 weeks before last frost; beets handle light frost and germinate well in cool soil.

Beets: Spacing, Yield & Planting Dates

Plant count & yield calculator

Pre-filled for this crop — adjust bed size or pick a different vegetable.

Bed length

Bed width

Crop

Enter bed size to count plants.

Seed starting dates

Pre-filled last frost — change the date to rebuild the full crop schedule. For Beets with this frost date , direct sow ~Mar 18 .

Pick a last frost date for the schedule.

About beets

Beets provide a dual harvest of earthy roots for roasting and nutritious greens for sauteing, all from a fast-growing, frost-tolerant crop.

Spacing & yield

Beets wants 3×12 inches and about 0.2 lb per plant at ~60 days to maturity.

Growing tips

Soak seed clusters overnight to speed germination of the multigerm seeds.
Thin clusters to one seedling per 3 inches once true leaves appear.
Harvest beet greens progressively — taking a few outer leaves does not harm root development.
Sow in both spring and late summer for two root harvests per year.

Common mistakes

Failing to thin multigerm seeds, resulting in stunted, crowded roots.
Harvesting too late — beets larger than 3 inches often turn woody and fibrous.

Harvest & storage

Pull roots at 2-3 inches diameter, typically 60 days from sowing for tender, sweet beets.

Twist off tops and store roots in a perforated bag in the refrigerator for 2-3 months.

Companion planting

Good neighbors for beets: onions, lettuce, cabbage, garlic. Avoid planting beside: pole beans, field mustard.

Planting calendar

Direct sow about 4 weeks before your last spring frost. Use the seed-starting calculator above with your real county frost date — the April 15 default is only a worked example (zone 6 style).

Estimates only — consult your local extension office for advice specific to your land and animals.

Frequently asked questions

What spacing do beets need?: Thin to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart; each seed cluster produces multiple seedlings that must be thinned.
How much does a beet weigh?: A garden beet harvested at ideal size yields about 0.2 lb (roughly 3 oz) per root.
When should beets be planted?: Direct sow 4 weeks before last frost; beets handle light frost and germinate well in cool soil.