How to Grow Golden Beets

Golden beets are a delicious and vibrant addition to any garden. Not only are they a colorful and nutritious choice, but they also add a unique flavor to your dishes. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice, growing golden beets can be a rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully grow golden beets in your own backyard.

Table of Contents

When to Start Golden Beets

The best time to start growing golden beets is in the early spring or late summer, depending on your location. They prefer cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into the garden once the soil has warmed up to around 50°F (10°C).

How to Grow Golden Beets From Seed

The first step in growing golden beets is to select a sunny location in your garden. Golden beets thrive in full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade as well. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds and debris, then loosen it with a garden fork or tiller. Beets prefer loose, well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sow the seeds directly into the prepared soil, spacing them about 1 inch apart and ½ inch deep.
Water the area thoroughly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Keep the soil consistently moist as the seeds germinate and the seedlings grow.
Thin the seedlings to about 3 to 4 inches apart once they have grown to a few inches tall. Remove the weaker seedlings to give the remaining ones room to grow.

How and When to Transplant Golden Beets

If you prefer to start your golden beet seeds indoors or want to extend the growing season, you can transplant the seedlings into your garden about 2 to 4 weeks after sowing.

Start the seeds indoors in biodegradable pots or seed trays filled with seed starting mix.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide sufficient light to encourage healthy growth.
Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a period of 7 to 10 days.
Transplant the seedlings into the garden, spacing them 3 to 4 inches apart.
Water the newly transplanted seedlings thoroughly and continue to keep the soil moist as they establish.

How to Plant Golden Beets – Spacing and Patterns

When planting golden beets, it’s important to give each plant enough space to grow and develop its roots. The spacing and pattern will depend on whether you’re growing golden beets for their roots or greens.

If your primary goal is to harvest the beetroots, space the plants about 3 to 4 inches apart in rows that are 12 to 18 inches apart. This spacing will allow the beets to develop their characteristic rounded shape.

However, if you’re growing golden beets for their leafy greens, you can plant them closer together. Space the plants about 2 to 3 inches apart in rows that are 8 to 12 inches apart. This closer spacing will allow you to harvest the greens as baby beets, while leaving enough space for the remaining plants to grow large roots.

How Long to Grow Golden Beets

Golden beets are typically ready to harvest in approximately 55 to 60 days from the time of sowing, depending on the variety. However, you can harvest them earlier if you prefer baby beets with tender roots and smaller greens, or you can wait longer for larger, more mature beetroots.

How to Water Golden Beets

Golden beets require consistent and adequate moisture to grow properly. Water them deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to rot and disease.

How to Fertilize Golden Beets

Prior to planting golden beets, it’s a good idea to prepare your soil by adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure. This will provide a nutrient-rich environment for your beets to thrive.

During the growing season, you can top-dress your beets with compost or use a balanced organic fertilizer to provide additional nutrients. Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions, and be sure to water the plants afterward to help the nutrients reach the roots.

Sunlight Requirements for Golden Beets

Golden beets thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade as well. Aim to provide them with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and root development.

Soil Requirements for Golden Beets

Golden beets prefer loose, well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is heavy or compacted, consider adding organic matter such as compost to improve its texture and drainage.

Before planting, it’s also a good idea to perform a soil test to determine if any additional amendments are needed. This will help ensure that your golden beets have the proper nutrients and will grow to their full potential.

How to Grow Golden Beets Outdoors

Growing golden beets outdoors is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. By following a few simple steps, you can successfully grow golden beets in your garden.

Choose a sunny location in your garden and prepare the soil by removing weeds and debris.
Sow the golden beet seeds directly into the prepared soil, spacing them about 1 inch apart and ½ inch deep.
Water the area thoroughly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Keep the soil consistently moist as the seeds germinate and the seedlings grow.
Thin the seedlings to about 3 to 4 inches apart once they have grown to a few inches tall. Remove the weaker seedlings to give the remaining ones room to grow.
Continue to water the plants regularly, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.
Monitor for pests and diseases, and take appropriate action if necessary.
Harvest the golden beets when they have reached the desired size, usually around 55 to 60 days from sowing.

How to Grow Golden Beets Indoors

If you don’t have access to a garden or simply prefer indoor gardening, you can still enjoy fresh golden beets by growing them indoors. Here’s how:

Start by selecting a container that is at least 10 to 12 inches deep to allow room for the beet roots to develop.
Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
Sow the golden beet seeds directly into the potting mix, spacing them about 1 inch apart and covering them with ½ inch of soil.
Water the soil thoroughly after sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Place the container in a sunny location where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Keep the soil consistently moist as the seeds germinate and the seedlings grow.
Thin the seedlings to about 3 to 4 inches apart once they have grown to a few inches tall. Remove the weaker seedlings to give the remaining ones room to grow.
Continue to water the plants regularly, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.
Fertilize the plants every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer to provide additional nutrients.
Harvest the golden beets when they have reached the desired size, usually around 55 to 60 days from sowing.

How to Grow Golden Beets In Containers and Pots

Golden beets can be successfully grown in containers and pots, making them a great option for those with limited space. Follow these steps to grow golden beets in containers:

Choose a container that is at least 10 to 12 inches deep and has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
Sow the golden beet seeds directly into the potting mix, spacing them about 1 inch apart and covering them with ½ inch of soil.
Water the soil thoroughly after sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Place the container in a sunny location where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Keep the soil consistently moist as the seeds germinate and the seedlings grow.
Thin the seedlings to about 3 to 4 inches apart once they have grown to a few inches tall. Remove the weaker seedlings to give the remaining ones room to grow.
Continue to water the plants regularly, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.
Fertilize the plants every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer to provide additional nutrients.
Harvest the golden beets when they have reached the desired size, usually around 55 to 60 days from sowing.

Golden Beets Companion Plants – What to Plant With & Not Plant With Golden Beets

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing plants together that have mutually beneficial relationships. Some plants can help improve the growth and health of golden beets, while others can hinder their development. Here are a few companion plants that work well with golden beets:

Carrots: Carrots and beets are great companions as they both prefer similar soil conditions and can help deter pests.
Lettuce: Lettuce provides shade to the beets, helping to keep the soil cool and preventing weed growth.
Cabbage family: Cabbage, broccoli, and kale can help repel pests that commonly feed on beets.

On the other hand, there are a few plants that are not recommended to be grown alongside golden beets:

Onions: Onions can inhibit the growth of golden beets and negatively affect their flavor.
Pole beans: Pole beans require a different spacing and can overshadow the beets, limiting their access to sunlight.

Common Golden Beets Pests and Diseases

While golden beets are generally easy to grow, they can still fall victim to a few common pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues you may encounter and how to address them:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on the leaves, sucking sap and causing distortion. Remove them by spraying the affected plants with a strong jet of water or treat with an organic insecticidal soap according to the package instructions.
Cabbage worms: These green caterpillars can chew on the leaves, causing damage. Handpick them off the plants and dispose of them or use organic insecticides labeled for caterpillar control.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove and destroy affected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.
Damping-off: Damping-off is a fungal disease that affects young seedlings, causing them to wilt and die. To prevent damping-off, ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering. Sowing seeds in well-draining soil and using sanitized containers can also help prevent this disease.

How & When to Harvest Golden Beets

Knowing when to harvest your golden beets is essential to ensure that they are at their best in terms of flavor and texture. Here are some signs to look for:

Root size: Golden beets are generally ready to harvest when they reach a diameter of 1 to 3 inches, depending on your preference. Smaller beets tend to be sweeter and more tender, while larger beets may have a more earthy flavor.
Leaf condition: The condition of the leaves can also be an indicator of when to harvest. The leaves should still be vibrant and healthy-looking. If they start to wilt or turn yellow, it may be a sign that the beets are ready to be harvested.

To harvest golden beets:

Gently dig around the base of the plants with a garden fork or trowel, being careful not to damage the roots.
Lift the beets out of the soil, holding them by the tops to avoid bruising.
Trim off the tops, leaving about an inch of stem attached to the beet. This will help prevent moisture loss and prolong their storage life.
Brush off any excess soil, taking care not to scrub or wash the beets, as this can remove their protective outer layer.

How to Store & Preserve Golden Beets

If you have a bountiful beet harvest, you may want to store some for future use. Here are a few methods to store and preserve golden beets:

Storage method 1 – Refrigeration: Golden beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 weeks. To store them, trim off the tops, leaving about an inch of stem, and place the beets in a perforated plastic bag or a container with ventilation holes. Store them in the crisper drawer to maintain optimal moisture levels.
Storage method 2 – Root cellaring: If you have a root cellar or a cool, dark basement, you can store golden beets for several months. Trim off the tops, leaving about an inch of stem, and brush off any excess soil. Place the beets in crates or boxes lined with damp sand or sawdust, making sure they don’t touch each other. Store them in a cool location with a temperature between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C) and a humidity level around 95%.
Preservation method 1 – Canning: Another way to preserve golden beets is by canning them. Start by washing the beets and trimming off the tops, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached. Cook the beets in boiling water until tender, then peel and cut them into pieces or slices. Pack the beets into sterilized canning jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Add boiling water or syrup made of sugar and vinegar, depending on your preference. Process the jars in a water bath canner according to USDA guidelines.
Preservation method 2 – Freezing: Freezing is another option for preserving golden beets. Start by washing, trimming, and cooking the beets until tender. Once cooked, peel and cut the beets into pieces or slices. Blanch them in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Drain the beets and pack them into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date and place them in the freezer. Properly frozen beets can last up to 10 to 12 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we’ve covered the basics of growing golden beets, let’s address some frequently asked questions:

Q: Can I grow golden beets in containers?

A: Yes, golden beets can be successfully grown in containers and pots. Just make sure to choose a container that is at least 10 to 12 inches deep and has drainage holes.

Q: How long do golden beets take to grow?

A: Golden beets typically take around 55 to 60 days to mature from the time of sowing, but this can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Q: Are golden beets sweeter than red beets?

A: Golden beets are generally milder and sweeter than red beets. They have a less earthy flavor and a slightly nutty taste.

Q: Can I eat the tops of golden beets?

A: Yes, the tops of golden beets, also known as beet greens, are edible and nutritious. They can be cooked or enjoyed raw in salads.

Q: What are some popular golden beet varieties?

A: Some popular golden beet varieties include ‘Burpee’s Golden’, ‘Touchstone Gold’, and ‘Golden Detroit’.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get out there and start growing your own delicious golden beets. With a little patience and care, you’ll soon be enjoying the fruits of your labor in the form of vibrant and tasty homegrown beetroots and greens.

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