Beet
Beta vulgaris
Also known as: beetroot, garden beet
Dual-purpose root crop—both roots and greens are edible. Tolerates light frost and stores well.
Growing Requirements
Planting Schedule
Start Indoors
4–6 weeks before last frost
Direct Sow (Spring)
2–4 weeks before last frost
Transplant Outdoors
-2–9 weeks after last frost
Fall Sow
8–10 weeks before first frost
Germination
5–10 days
Days to Harvest
50–70 days
Zone Suitability
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zones 2–11
Each seed cluster produces multiple seedlings—thin early. Tolerates light frost.
Companion Plants
Good Companions (8)
Garlic
Allium sativum
Garlic deters pests without competing for root space
Confidence: Medium
Onion
Allium cepa
Alliums and beets are compatible; onion deters pests
Confidence: Medium
Lettuce
Lactuca sativa
Shallow lettuce roots do not compete with deep beet roots
Confidence: Medium
Broccoli
Brassica oleracea var. italica
Compatible root depths; no significant competition
Confidence: Medium
Cabbage
Brassica oleracea var. capitata
Compatible root depths with brassicas
Confidence: Medium
Kale
Brassica oleracea var. sabellica
Compatible root depths and nutrient needs
Confidence: Medium
Green Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
Beans fix nitrogen that benefits beet growth
Confidence: Medium
Cauliflower
Brassica oleracea var. botrytis
Compatible root zones; no competition
Confidence: Medium