How to Grow Beets in Wisconsin
Growing beets in Wisconsin is quite different compared to Florida due to the state’s cooler, more temperate climate. Beets are a cool-season crop, making Wisconsin’s spring and fall the ideal times for planting. The key to success lies in managing the shorter growing season while taking advantage of the cooler weather that beets prefer.
1. Best Time to Plant Beets in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, beets should be planted in early spring as soon as the soil is workable, which is usually between late April and early May. Beets can also be planted for a fall harvest, with a second planting taking place in mid-to-late July or even early August. Beets need about 50 to 70 days to mature, so planning your planting based on expected frost dates is important.
2. Soil Preparation
Beets grow best in loamy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The cool springs in Wisconsin make it ideal for beets, but the soil should be properly prepared before planting. Adding compost or aged manure to the soil improves its texture and provides essential nutrients. A balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) worked into the soil before planting ensures healthy growth.
3. Choosing Beet Varieties
Since Wisconsin has cool springs and falls, many beet varieties perform well. Varieties like ‘Detroit Dark Red,’ ‘Golden Beet,’ and ‘Chioggia’ are popular choices in the region. Each of these varieties matures in about 55-70 days, allowing them to fit perfectly into Wisconsin’s shorter growing season.
4. Planting and Spacing
Beet seeds should be planted directly in the garden, ½ inch deep and spaced 1-2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. Beet seeds are actually clusters of seeds, so thinning is necessary once the seedlings are a few inches tall. Thinning allows the remaining beets to grow larger without competition.
5. Watering Requirements
Beets need consistent moisture, especially during germination and root development. Wisconsin’s spring rains usually provide enough water early in the season, but in dry periods, supplemental watering may be needed. Aim for 1 inch of water per week, ensuring that the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged.
6. Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Common pests that affect beets in Wisconsin include leaf miners and aphids. While these pests can cause damage to the leaves, they rarely affect the roots if caught early. Use insecticidal soap or row covers to protect your plants. Fungal diseases, such as Cercospora leaf spot, can also occur in wet conditions, but ensuring proper spacing between plants and good air circulation reduces the risk.
7. Harvesting Beets
Beets are ready to harvest when their roots are about 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter, which typically occurs 50-70 days after planting. You can also harvest beet greens throughout the growing season and use them in salads or cooked as a side dish.
8. Post-Harvest Storage
After harvesting, cut the greens off the beet roots and store the roots in a cool, humid environment such as a root cellar or refrigerator. They can be stored for several months in optimal conditions (around 32°F with 95% humidity). Beet greens should be used within a few days for optimal freshness.
