Discover the Ultimate Guide on How to Grow Beets in Colorado: Tips, Tricks, and Expert Advice!

Colorado’s high altitude and diverse climate offer a unique challenge for gardeners, but also a wealth of opportunity. If you’re looking to add a vibrant pop of color to your garden and deliciousness to your kitchen, beets are a fantastic choice. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of how to grow beets in Colorado, helping you harvest sweet, tender, and vibrantly colored beets from your own garden.

Understanding Colorado’s Climate

Colorado’s climate is characterized by high altitude, sunny days, and cold nights. This means that your beets will need to be planted at the right time, and you’ll need to pay attention to their water needs.

• Growing Season: The growing season in Colorado varies depending on your location, but generally runs from late May to early October.
• Altitude: The higher the altitude, the shorter the growing season and the colder the temperatures. Beets thrive in cooler weather, so higher altitudes may actually be beneficial.
• Sunlight: Beets need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Soil: Beets prefer well-drained, loose soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

Choosing the Right Beet Variety

With so many varieties to choose from, selecting the right beet for your Colorado garden is key. Here are some popular choices:

• Early Wonder: This fast-growing variety matures in 50-60 days and produces small, sweet beets.
• Detroit Dark Red: A classic variety known for its deep red color and tender texture, maturing in 60-70 days.
• Golden Beet: This variety adds a touch of color to your garden with its golden-yellow roots.
• Chioggia: This heirloom variety features beautiful, striped red and white roots, adding a visual intrigue to your garden and a unique flavor to your meals.

Planting Your Beet Seeds

• Timing: Plant beet seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, typically in late May or early June.
• Spacing: Space seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
• Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.
• Thinning: Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 2-3 inches apart to allow for proper growth.

Caring for Your Beet Plants

• Watering: Beets need consistent moisture, especially during the hot summer months. Water deeply and regularly, aiming for 1-2 inches of water per week.
• Weeding: Keep weeds at bay to prevent them from competing with your beet plants for nutrients and water.
• Fertilizing: Beets benefit from a light application of fertilizer every few weeks. Choose a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-5.
• Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and leafhoppers. If needed, use an organic insecticide or insecticidal soap.
• Disease Control: Beets are susceptible to diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew. Avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation to prevent these issues.

Harvesting Your Beet Bounty

• Timing: Beets are ready to harvest when they are about 2-3 inches in diameter. You can test their size by gently pressing on the top of the beet.
• Harvesting: Use a garden trowel or a sharp knife to harvest beets.
• Storing: Store beets in a cool, dark, and humid place for up to a few weeks.

Beyond the Harvest: Creative Uses for Beets

Beets are a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Roasted: Roasted beets are a delicious and healthy side dish.
• Salads: Add a vibrant pop of color and sweetness to your salads with chopped beets.
• Pickled: Pickled beets are a tangy and crunchy treat.
• Juiced: Beet juice is a popular health drink packed with nutrients.
• Smoothies: Add beets to your smoothies for a boost of flavor and color.

Beet It Up: A Final Word on Success

Growing beets in Colorado can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown beets all summer long. Remember to choose the right variety, plant them at the right time, and provide them with the care they need. Enjoy the journey, and savor the sweet rewards of your labor!

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Can I grow beets in containers?
Yes, you can grow beets in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.
2. What are some signs of beet problems?

• Yellowing leaves: This could indicate a nutrient deficiency, particularly nitrogen.
• Stunted growth: This could be caused by pests, diseases, or poor soil conditions.
• Cracked beets: This can occur due to inconsistent watering or sudden changes in soil moisture.

3. How do I store beet greens?
Beet greens can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag.
4. Can I save beet seeds from my harvest?
Yes, you can save beet seeds. Allow the beet plants to flower and produce seed pods. Harvest the seeds when the pods are dry and brown.
5. What are some companion plants for beets?
Beets pair well with plants like lettuce, spinach, onions, and garlic. These companion plants can help deter pests and improve soil health.