Use these tips to learn how to grow beets from seed this summer.
How to Grow Beets from Seed
I used to think there was just one kind of beet but the other day, I saw a beet of a different color in the produce section. Apparently, they come in orange and yellow, too. Who would have thought? In any case, if you are looking at starting a crop of these beautiful, rich in vitamin and color root vegetables, check out these tips on starting beets from seed indoors and outside.
How to Grow Beets from Seed Indoors
You will want to start beet seeds about 6 weeks before you will be able to transplant them. This is timed by the last frost by a week. To start beet seeds indoors, you will need a seed starting tray, soil free from pebbles (seed starting mix works best) and some water.
Place some seed starting mix into each section of your seed starting tray. Soak your seeds in some warm water for 24 hours before planting. This will help remove the natural cover these seeds have to slow germination and protect them and will aid in faster germination.
Place each seed about ½ inch into the soil. Water and keep moist until you see germination, which should take about 1-2 weeks. Make sure to keep your seeds in a warm place with lots of direct light. If you need it, use a gardening heating pad. The perfect temperature for the sil is 50-70 degrees.
How to Start Beet Seeds Outdoors
You can direct sow beet seeds if you live in a warmer area where the ground is not still frozen in late winter/early spring. You will want to make sure the soil is at least 50-60 degrees, even at night.
Prepare your soil by adding some aged compost and mixing it in. You will want to dig shallow trenches to plant your seeds directly into. Do not pre-soak the seeds if you plan on sewing directly in your garden. This will help protect the seeds while they germinate in a non-controlled environment.
Plant seeds about 6-8 inches apart from each other and be prepared to thin them out later. Don’t put your seeds in the soil too deep. About ½ inch is sufficient.
Make sure to water and keep the soil moist during this time to help dissolve the coating on the seeds and help in their germination. You will see seedlings in about 2 weeks.
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