What To Know
- With a few simple strategies, you can still enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, tender beets even in the summer heat.
- Plant your beets in a partially shaded location, or use shade cloth to protect them from the hottest part of the day.
- By choosing the right variety, timing your planting and harvesting, and providing the right care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, tender beets even in the summer heat.
Beets are a delicious and nutritious addition to any garden, but they can be challenging to grow in hot weather. The intense heat can cause the beets to bolt, meaning they produce flowers instead of roots, resulting in smaller, less flavorful beets. But don’t despair! With a few simple strategies, you can still enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, tender beets even in the summer heat.
Choose the Right Beet Variety
The first step to success is selecting the right beet variety. Some beet varieties are more heat-tolerant than others. Look for varieties specifically bred for warm climates, such as:
- Early Wonder: This fast-growing variety matures in about 50 days and is known for its sweet flavor.
- Detroit Dark Red: This classic variety is also known for its heat tolerance and good flavor.
- Golden Beet: This variety produces golden-colored beets with a slightly sweeter flavor than red beets.
- Chioggia: This variety is known for its beautiful red and white striped roots, but it can be less heat-tolerant than other varieties.
Timing is Key: Planting and Harvesting
Timing your planting and harvesting is crucial for successful beet growing in hot weather.
- Planting: Aim to plant beets in the early spring or late summer/early fall when temperatures are cooler. In hot climates, consider planting beets in the shade or using shade cloth to protect them from the intense sun.
- Harvesting: Harvest beets before they get too large. Oversized beets can become tough and woody. You can start harvesting beets when they are about the size of a golf ball.
Providing the Right Soil Conditions
Beets thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Here’s how to ensure the ideal soil conditions:
- Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve drainage and fertility.
- Mulching: Mulch around your beet plants with organic material like straw or wood chips to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Watering: Water your beets deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Protecting Your Beets from the Heat
Beets are sensitive to heat stress, so it’s important to take steps to protect them from the intense sun. Here are some tips:
- Shade: Plant your beets in a partially shaded location, or use shade cloth to protect them from the hottest part of the day.
- Watering: Water your beets early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
- Mulching: Mulch around your beet plants to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
Addressing Common Problems
Even with the best care, your beets may still encounter some problems in hot weather. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
- Bolting: If your beets bolt, they are producing flowers instead of roots. To prevent bolting, plant your beets in the cooler months or use shade cloth to protect them from the intense sun.
- Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can occur in wet soil. To prevent root rot, ensure your soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
- Pests: Beetles, aphids, and other pests can damage your beet plants. To control pests, use organic methods like handpicking or insecticidal soap.
Harvesting and Enjoying Your Beets
Once your beets are ready, harvest them by pulling them gently from the ground. Be careful not to damage the roots. Store your beets in a cool, dark place for up to two weeks.
Beets are versatile and delicious. Enjoy them raw in salads, roasted with herbs and spices, or cooked in soups and stews. You can also pickle beets or use them to make beet juice.
A Bountiful Harvest, Even in the Heat
Growing beets in hot weather can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By choosing the right variety, timing your planting and harvesting, and providing the right care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, tender beets even in the summer heat.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I grow beets in containers in hot weather?
A: Yes, you can grow beets in containers in hot weather. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: What are the signs of a beet that is ready to harvest?
A: The tops of the beet plants will start to wilt and turn yellow when the beets are ready to harvest. The beets should also feel firm to the touch.
Q: How do I prevent beets from bolting in hot weather?
A: To prevent bolting, plant your beets in the cooler months or use shade cloth to protect them from the intense sun. You can also try to keep the soil consistently moist, as dry soil can encourage bolting.
Q: Can I grow beets in a raised bed in hot weather?
A: Yes, you can grow beets in a raised bed in hot weather. Raised beds provide better drainage and allow for more control over the soil conditions. Be sure to amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
Q: What are some other tips for growing beets in hot weather?
A: Here are some additional tips:
- Avoid planting beets in areas with poor drainage.
- Water your beets deeply and regularly, but avoid overwatering.
- Mulch around your beet plants to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
- Harvest your beets before they get too large.
- Use organic methods to control pests and diseases.
