Beets
Going to seed
Beta vulgaris
BiennialCare at a glance
☀️ LightFull sun (6–8 hrs)
💧 WaterRegular; 1 inch per week
📅 Days to maturity50
🌀 LifecycleBiennial
Where is it growing?
2026Bed 11 · planted 2026-04-26
About this plant
Beets are a cool-season root vegetable with dark red skin and deep crimson flesh, prized for both the tender roots and nutrient-rich greens. 'Going to seed' is a specialty cultivar selected for rapid flowering and seed production rather than root development, making it ideal for gardeners interested in seed saving or extending the beet season through continuous succession planting. Growers choose this variety when seed production is the primary goal.
Germination
Beet seeds germinate best at soil temperatures of 50–85°F, with optimal germination around 70°F. Germination typically occurs in 7–10 days. Seeds have no light preference and benefit from consistent soil moisture during germination. Soaking seeds for 1–2 hours before sowing can speed sprouting.
How to plant
Direct sow beet seeds outdoors 2–3 weeks before the last spring frost, or in late summer for a fall crop. Sow seeds ½ inch deep and 2 inches apart in loose, well-draining soil, thinning seedlings to 4–6 inches apart once they have true leaves. 'Going to seed' does not require transplanting; successive sowings every 2–3 weeks will provide continuous harvests. This cultivar favors direct seeding and does not respond well to indoor starting.
Growing tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; drought stress causes woody, bitter roots and accelerates bolting. Fertilize at sowing and again at mid-season with a balanced fertilizer or compost-enriched soil. 'Going to seed' is prone to early flowering, which is its intended trait; thin aggressively to reduce competition and support seed head development. Watch for leaf spot and root rot in humid conditions; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Harvesting
For seed production, allow plants to flower and set seed in their second season (or allow bolting in the first season with this cultivar). Harvest seed heads when pods dry and brown, typically 120–150 days after planting; cut and hang upside down in a paper bag to finish drying. If harvesting young roots before bolting, pick them at 1–2 inches in diameter for tenderness. Store dried seeds in a cool, dry place in sealed containers.
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