Heirloom Beet Planting Guide: From Seed to Harvest

Beets, scientifically known as Beta vulgaris, are a favorite with heirloom vegetable gardeners. Their strikingly vibrant roots and nutritious greens make them a versatile crop. Heirloom and open-pollinated varieties of beets are often preferred for their reliability and the ability to save seeds for future planting. With their rich, earthy flavor, and abundant in nutrients, heirloom beets are a valuable addition to any garden. Being relatively easy to grow, they can yield an abundant harvest. In this heirloom beet planting guide, we will cover everything you need to know about planting and growing heirloom or open-pollinated beet varieties, including tips on seed spacing, soil conditions, thinning, watering, harvesting ans storage and finally, saving seeds.

Quick Start Heirloom Beet Planting Guide – Complete Planting Guide Below

Heirloom / Open Pollinated Beets are usually direct seeded. Plant heirloom beet seeds in full sun, when the soil has warmed in Spring, ¼-½” deep, 1-2″ apart, in rows 12-16″ apart. Germination occurs in 5-17 days in soil 55-70°F. When the beets start to come up, thin to 3-4″. Keep well watered, especially during root development. Harvest beet greens when they are young for the best flavor. Harvest beet root when 1-3″ across. Heirloom Beets keep for a long time when stored in moist sand.

The Complete Planting Guide for Heirloom Beets: From Seed to Harvest

Choosing Heirloom Beet Varieties

Selecting the right heirloom beet varieties is the first step in planting heirloom beets. Heirloom beet seeds come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, each offering unique flavors and appearances that go beyond the common red beet. Here are some popular heirloom varieties to consider for your garden:

• Detroit Dark Red: One of the most well-known heirloom varieties, it’s cherished for its smooth texture and deep, earthy flavor.
• Golden Detroit Beet: This variety offers a sweet taste with yellow-golden roots that won’t stain your hands, making it ideal for those who avoid beets due to the staining.
• Chioggia: An Italian heirloom famous for its mild flavor and eye-catching red-and-white concentric rings inside.
• Bull’s Blood: Known for its striking dark red foliage, which adds color to salads while also producing flavorful roots.
• Ruby Queen: Produces exceptionally sweet dark red beets. The canning industry’s favorite for years, it’s smooth buttery flavor is sure to please.
• Early Wonder Tall Top: An old heirloom that predates 1811. Has a slightly flattened globular dark red root, adapts well to all seasons, is good for early spring plantings.

Choosing the right varieties brings different flavors and uses to your table, and gives you great diversity in your harvest and nutrients. This guide will show you how to grow heirloom beets effectively, whether you prefer sweet Golden Detroit beets or deep red Detroit Dark Reds.

When and Where to Plant Heirloom Beets

Learning how to grow heirloom beets starts with knowing when and where to plant them. Heirloom and open-pollinated beets are typically direct-seeded outdoors, as they prefer to start in their final growing location rather than being transplanted. Beets thrive in full sunlight, so choose a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Though hardy, beets grow best in cool weather and can withstand light frost, making early spring or fall ideal for planting.

For the healthiest growth, plant beets in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. While they tolerate a range of soil conditions, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.5) is ideal. Prepare the soil by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure, creating a nutrient-rich environment that supports strong root development.

Planting Heirloom Beet Seeds

Timing is crucial when planting heirloom beets. In most regions, you can sow beet seeds in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. For optimal germination, the soil temperature should be between 55°F and 70°F. If planting a fall crop, sow the seeds six to eight weeks before the first expected frost date.

Here’s how to get started with planting heirloom beets:

1. Seed Depth and Spacing: Plant beet seeds ¼- ½ inch deep, spacing them 1-2 inches apart in rows 12 – 16 inches apart. Beet seeds are clusters that can produce multiple seedlings, so thinning will be necessary.
2. Soil Preparation: Before planting heirloom beets, prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 8 to 12 inches, removing rocks and debris that could hinder root growth. Mix in organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil structure and fertility.
3. Watering After Planting: After planting, water the seeds gently to help initiate germination. Heirloom beets need consistent moisture, particularly in the early growth stages, but avoid over-watering, as it can lead to root rot.

Germination and Thinning

Beet seeds typically germinate within 5 to 17 days, depending on soil temperature. Warmer soil accelerates the process, while cooler conditions slow it down. It’s essential to maintain consistent moisture during germination to prevent the soil from drying out and hydrate the germinating seeds.

Once the seedlings emerge, they may appear crowded since each “seed” can produce multiple plants. Thinning is an important part of any heirloom beet planting guide. When the seedlings are a few inches tall and have developed their first true leaves, thin them to 3 to 4 inches apart. This allows each beet to grow to its full size without competing for water and nutrients. The young greens you remove can be used in salads or sautéed as a nutritious addition to your meals.

Watering Requirements for Heirloom Beets

Consistent watering is vital for healthy beets. Aim to provide about 1 to 1½ inches of water per week, which helps maintain even soil moisture. Fluctuations in moisture can cause the beet roots to crack or become tough. Adding mulch around your beet plants helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

While consistent moisture is crucial, be careful not to over-water. Waterlogged soil can result in root rot and other fungal issues. This heirloom beet planting guide recommends finding the right balance by checking the soil regularly and watering when the top inch feels dry.

Harvesting Heirloom Beets and Beet Greens

For the most flavorful and tender beets, harvest when the roots are 1 to 3 inches in diameter. Typically, heirloom beets are ready for harvesting 50 to 70 days after planting, depending on the variety. Larger beets can become tough, so it’s best to harvest them promptly.

To harvest, loosen the soil gently around the roots and pull them up by the greens, taking care not to damage the beet root. If you grow beets for both greens and roots, start harvesting the tender greens when they are 3 to 6 inches tall. Beet greens are packed with nutrients and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes.

Managing Pests and Diseases in Heirloom Beets

Keeping your heirloom beets healthy and productive requires managing common pests and diseases effectively. While beets are relatively hardy, they can be susceptible to a range of issues that impact their leaves, roots, and overall growth. Below are some of the most common pests and diseases, along with tips for managing them organically to maintain a thriving garden.

Common Beet Pests and Organic Control Methods

1. Aphids
   Small, soft-bodied insects, aphids often gather on the undersides of beet leaves, sucking sap and weakening the plant. They can also transmit diseases.
   • Control: Spray plants with a mixture of water and mild soap or introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings. Regularly check the undersides of leaves and remove infestations by hand.
2. Leaf Miners
   Leaf miners tunnel through beet leaves, leaving white trails and causing damage that can reduce photosynthesis.
   • Control: Remove affected leaves immediately to prevent the larvae from maturing. Using row covers can also keep adult flies from laying eggs on your plants.
3. Flea Beetles
   Flea beetles are tiny, black insects that create small, round holes in leaves, especially damaging to young seedlings.
   • Control: Apply a layer of fine insect netting or row covers, and sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of plants to deter them. Mulching can also help reduce the beetles’ access to the plants.
4. Cutworms
   These caterpillars chew through stems at the base of young plants, often killing them.
   • Control: Use cardboard collars around seedlings to protect them or scatter crushed eggshells around the plants, which deter cutworms.

Common Diseases and Prevention Strategies

1. Downy Mildew
   This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on leaves and a downy growth underneath. It often occurs in humid conditions.
   • Prevention: Improve air circulation around plants by spacing them properly and avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves promptly and use mulch to prevent fungal spores from splashing onto plants.
2. Powdery Mildew
   Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves, which can weaken the plant over time.
   • Prevention: Avoid overcrowding plants and keep humidity levels down by watering early in the day. A homemade solution of baking soda and water can also help prevent the spread.
3. Root Rot
   Caused by overly wet soil, root rot can destroy the roots of beets, leading to stunted growth or plant death.
   • Prevention: Ensure your soil is well-draining, avoid overwatering, and water at the base of plants to keep foliage dry. Raised beds or adding organic matter to improve soil structure can also help prevent waterlogging.

General Tips for Preventing Pests and Diseases

• Practice Crop Rotation: Avoid planting beets or other root vegetables in the same spot each year, as this can reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases.
• Keep the Garden Clean: Remove plant debris and weeds, which can harbor pests and fungal spores.
• Encourage Beneficial Insects: Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are natural predators of many beet pests and can be attracted by planting flowers like marigolds, calendula, and dill nearby.
• Use Row Covers: Lightweight row covers are an effective barrier for preventing many pests, especially early in the growing season when plants are more vulnerable.

By implementing these organic management strategies, you can protect your heirloom beets from common pests and diseases, ensuring a healthy crop throughout the season. Regular monitoring and preventive measures will keep your garden resilient and productive year after year.

Storing and Preserving Heirloom Beets

Proper storage is a key part of this heirloom beet planting guide, ensuring that you can enjoy your harvest long after the growing season ends. Whether you’re looking to keep them fresh for a few weeks or preserve them for months, there are multiple methods to suit your needs. Below are the best practices for short-term and long-term storage, as well as popular preservation methods such as freezing, pickling, and dehydrating.

1. Short-Term Storage

For immediate use, follow these steps to keep your heirloom beets fresh in the fridge:

• Trim the Greens: Cut the greens to about 1 inch above the root to prevent moisture loss.
• Store in the Vegetable Drawer: Place the beets in a perforated plastic bag or wrap them in a damp paper towel to maintain humidity.
• Check Regularly: Stored this way, beets will remain fresh for up to two weeks.

2. Long-Term Storage in a Root Cellar

If you have access to a root cellar or a cool, dark storage space, heirloom beets can last for months under the right conditions:

• Layer with Sand or Sawdust: Place the beets in a container, layering them with slightly damp sand or sawdust. Ensure they do not touch each other to avoid spoilage.
• Ideal Temperature and Humidity: Keep the temperature between 32°F and 40°F and monitor for signs of rot.
• Inspect Periodically: Every few weeks, check the beets for soft spots and remove any that may be spoiling to protect the rest.

3. Freezing Beets

Freezing is a great way to preserve heirloom beets for long-term storage while maintaining flavor and nutrients:

1. Prepare the Beets: Wash, trim, and boil the beets until tender (about 25–30 minutes for medium-sized roots).
2. Cool and Peel: Allow the beets to cool, then remove the skins by sliding them off with your fingers.
3. Slice or Cube: Cut the beets to your preferred size and spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually.
4. Transfer to Bags: Once frozen, place the beet pieces in freezer bags. Frozen beets will keep for up to one year.

4. Canning and Pickling

Pickling is a popular way to preserve beets with a tangy flavor, perfect for adding to salads and side dishes:

1. Cook and Peel: Boil the beets until tender, let them cool, then peel and slice.
2. Prepare the Brine: Heat a vinegar-based brine with sugar and spices to add flavor.
3. Fill Jars and Process: Place the sliced beets in sterilized jars, pour the hot brine over them, and process in a water bath canner to ensure a seal.
4. Storage: Properly canned and pickled beets can be stored on the shelf for up to one year.

5. Dehydrating for Beet Chips

For a healthy, crunchy snack, try making beet chips by dehydrating:

1. Thinly Slice the Beets: Use a mandoline or knife to slice beets evenly.
2. Season to Taste: Sprinkle with a little salt or spices if desired.
3. Dehydrate: Arrange the slices on a dehydrator tray and dry at 125°F for 8 to 10 hours, or until crisp.
4. Store in an Airtight Container: Keep beet chips in a sealed container, and they’ll stay fresh for several months.

With these storing and preserving techniques, you can enjoy the nutritious flavors of heirloom beets throughout the year, whether as fresh additions to meals or as delicious snacks. Each method helps extend the life of your beet harvest, allowing you to savor the benefits of this versatile vegetable long after the growing season has ended.

Saving Heirloom Beet Seeds

Saving seeds from heirloom beets allows you to grow the varieties you love year after year, creating a more self-sustaining and cost-effective garden. Since heirloom beets are open-pollinated, they produce plants with the same characteristics as the parent, unlike hybrids that can vary widely. By saving seeds from your healthiest plants, you can also develop beets that are better adapted to your specific soil and climate. Here’s everything you need to know to save heirloom beet seeds successfully, from plant selection to storage.

Why Save Heirloom Beet Seeds?

Saving seeds from heirloom beets offers several benefits:

• Cost Savings: Once you have a solid seed stock, you’ll reduce annual seed costs.
• Reliability: Heirloom seeds retain the original characteristics, ensuring consistent quality and flavor.
• Adaptation: Plants grown from saved seeds can adapt over time to your garden conditions.
• Self-Sustainability: Saving seeds supports a more resilient, self-sufficient garden and reduces dependence on commercial seed sources.

Selecting the Right Plants for Seed Saving

To ensure the best seed quality, start with a few of your strongest and healthiest plants. Here’s how to choose:

1. Look for Robust Growth: Choose plants with strong, healthy leaves and well-formed roots.
2. Check for Disease Resistance: Select plants that have shown good resistance to pests and diseases.
3. Single Variety Selection: Select plants from a single heirloom variety to prevent cross-pollination, which can occur between different beet types planted nearby.

Timing for Seed Saving

Beets are biennial, meaning they produce seeds in their second growing season. Follow these guidelines for timing:

• First Year Growth: In the first season, beets focus on growing roots and foliage.
• Overwintering: In mild climates, you can leave selected plants in the ground through winter. In colder climates, dig up the roots and store them in a cool, dry place (35°F–40°F) until spring.
• Replanting: In spring, replant the roots when the soil is workable to allow the plants to bolt and produce seeds.

Seed Production and Collection

In their second year, beet plants bolt, sending up tall flowering stalks. Follow these steps to collect mature seeds:

1. Allow Seed Pods to Dry: Wait until seed pods turn a light brown and become dry and brittle on the plant.
2. Cut and Collect: Cut the seed stalks and place them in a paper bag or spread them on a flat, dry surface.
3. Separate the Seeds: Crush the dry pods gently to release the seeds, and remove any remaining plant debris by shaking them through a mesh strainer or blowing away the chaff.

Storing Beet Seeds

Proper storage ensures your saved seeds will stay viable for years. Use these storage tips:

• Cool, Dark, and Dry Storage: Place seeds in a labeled envelope or airtight container and store them in a dark, cool area. A fridge or root cellar is ideal.
• Check Viability: Store seeds for up to five years. Before each planting season, test seed viability by sprouting a few seeds on damp paper towels.

Using Saved Seeds in Future Plantings

To ensure high germination rates and strong plants, test stored seeds before planting. Follow these steps:

1. Conduct a Germination Test: Place a small batch of seeds between damp paper towels and monitor them for a week.
2. Adapt and Improve: With each planting, your seeds will become increasingly well-suited to your local growing conditions, making each harvest more reliable and flavorful.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of growing heirloom beets from your own seed stock for many seasons to come.

Conclusion

Whether you are new to gardening or have years of experience in vegetable cultivation, this heirloom beet planting guide provides all the essential steps needed for planting heirloom beets and mastering how to grow heirloom beets successfully. By following the outlined tips on selecting the right varieties, preparing the soil, planting techniques, thinning the seedlings, proper watering practices, and effective storage methods, you can ensure your heirloom beets thrive from the start of the growing season through harvest time.

With a little care and attention, you can look forward to a bountiful harvest, enjoying not only the rich, earthy flavors but also the vibrant colors and unique textures that heirloom beets bring to your table. Whether you’re growing them for their roots or their nutritious greens, planting heirloom beets is sure to be a valuable and rewarding addition to your garden.

FAQ: Heirloom Beet Planting Guide