Colorado’s unpredictable weather means beets should go in the ground after the soil warms consistently. Finding the best time to plant beets in Colorado can feel tricky because of late frosts and quick temperature swings. But once you understand your local climate, planting beets becomes straightforward and rewarding.
Beets are a cool-season crop that thrives in Colorado’s unique growing conditions. They tolerate light frost but struggle in frozen or waterlogged soil. The key is timing your planting so the roots develop before summer heat arrives.
Understanding Colorado’s Growing Zones For Beets
Colorado spans multiple USDA hardiness zones, from 3b in the mountains to 7a in the warmer valleys. Your specific location determines the exact planting window.
Front Range And Urban Areas
Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins sit in zones 5a to 6a. Here, the last spring frost typically occurs between April 15 and May 15. Soil warms up faster in these areas because of lower elevation and more sunshine.
Mountain And High Elevation Regions
Places like Leadville, Breckenridge, and Durango are in zones 3b to 4b. Frost can happen well into June. Soil takes longer to warm, so you’ll need to wait until late spring or early summer.
Western Slope And Valleys
Grand Junction and Palisade enjoy milder winters and earlier springs. Zones 6b to 7a mean you can plant beets as early as March in some years. But watch for sudden cold snaps.
Best Time To Plant Beets In Colorado
The best time to plant beets in Colorado is when the soil temperature reaches at least 45°F (7°C) at a depth of 2 inches. For most Front Range gardeners, this happens between mid-April and early May. For mountain areas, aim for late May to early June.
You can also plant a second crop in late summer for a fall harvest. This works well in most Colorado regions because beets tolerate light frost and actually sweeten after a cold snap.
Spring Planting Window
For spring planting, follow these steps:
- Check soil temperature with a simple thermometer. Insert it 2 inches deep in the morning.
- Wait until soil is consistently above 45°F for at least three days.
- Prepare your garden bed by loosening soil to 12 inches deep and removing rocks.
- Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart.
- Water gently after planting to avoid washing seeds away.
Fall Planting Window
For a fall harvest, plant beets 8 to 10 weeks before your first expected fall frost. In Denver, that means planting around late July to mid-August. In mountain areas, plant by early August.
- Count backward from your average first frost date (check local extension office data).
- Add 10 days for germination and 50 to 70 days for maturity.
- Sow seeds directly in the ground, same depth as spring planting.
- Keep soil moist during hot August days to help germination.
- Mulch around seedlings to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Soil Preparation For Beet Success
Beets grow best in loose, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Colorado soil is often alkaline and clay-heavy, so amending is essential.
Testing And Amending Soil
Start by testing your soil pH. You can buy a simple kit or send a sample to the Colorado State University Extension. If pH is above 7.5, add sulfur or peat moss to lower it.
Mix in 2 to 3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure before planting. This improves drainage and adds nutrients. Avoid fresh manure, which can burn roots.
Dealing With Rocky Soil
Colorado’s rocky soil can cause beets to become misshapen or tough. Remove rocks larger than a marble from the planting area. If your soil is extremely rocky, consider raised beds or containers.
Raised beds warm faster in spring, which helps you plant earlier. They also drain better, preventing root rot during wet spells.
Choosing The Right Beet Varieties For Colorado
Not all beet varieties perform well in Colorado’s climate. Some bolt quickly in heat, while others handle cold better. Here are top picks:
- Detroit Dark Red – Classic variety, reliable, good for both spring and fall.
- Golden Beet – Sweet, less earthy, and doesn’t stain. Tolerates cooler soil.
- Chioggia – Candy-striped interior, mild flavor. Good for fresh eating.
- Bull’s Blood – Grown for both leaves and roots. Handles cold well.
- Early Wonder – Matures in 50 days, perfect for short seasons.
Seed Starting Tips
Beet seeds are actually clusters of seeds. Each “seed” can produce multiple seedlings. Soak seeds in water for 12 hours before planting to speed germination.
Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and cover lightly with soil. Space them 2 inches apart, then thin to 4 inches apart once seedlings have two true leaves. Thinning is crucial for large, uniform roots.
Watering Beets In Colorado’s Dry Climate
Colorado’s low humidity and intense sun mean beets need consistent moisture. Inconsistent watering causes tough, woody roots and cracking.
How Often To Water
Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Aim for 1 inch of water per week, including rain. Use a rain gauge to track.
During hot spells, water more frequently. Check soil moisture by sticking your finger 2 inches deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Mulching For Moisture Retention
Apply a 2-inch layer of straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves around your beets. Mulch keeps soil cool, reduces evaporation, and suppresses weeds.
Avoid using wood chips, which can tie up nitrogen as they decompose. Stick with organic mulches that break down slowly.
Fertilizing Beets For Optimal Growth
Beets are heavy feeders but sensitive to too much nitrogen. Excess nitrogen causes lush leaves but small, tough roots.
Before Planting
Mix a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 into the soil at planting time. Use about 1 pound per 100 square feet. Or use a slow-release organic option.
During Growth
Side-dress with a low-nitrogen fertilizer when plants are 4 inches tall. Use something like 5-10-10 or bone meal. Avoid high-nitrogen products like blood meal.
If leaves are dark green and lush but roots are small, cut back on nitrogen. If leaves are pale, add a light dose of fish emulsion.
Common Beet Pests And Problems In Colorado
Beets face few pests in Colorado, but a few issues can arise. Here’s what to watch for:
Leaf Miners
These tiny larvae tunnel through leaves, creating winding trails. Remove affected leaves and use floating row covers to prevent adult flies from laying eggs.
Aphids
Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth. Spray them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap. Ladybugs also help control them.
Root Maggots
These pests attack the roots, causing stunted growth. Rotate crops yearly and avoid planting beets where other root crops grew recently.
Bolting
When beets flower prematurely, roots become woody and inedible. Bolting is triggered by stress, such as sudden cold or heat. Plant at the right time and keep soil moist to prevent it.
Harvesting Beets At Peak Quality
Beets are ready to harvest 50 to 70 days after planting, depending on variety. The best size is 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Larger beets can become tough.
How To Harvest
Gently loosen soil around the beet with a garden fork or trowel. Pull the beet by the leaves, not the root, to avoid breaking the taproot. Brush off excess soil but don’t wash until you’re ready to eat.
Storing Fresh Beets
Cut off the greens, leaving 1 inch of stem attached. Store roots in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. Greens last only a few days, so use them quickly.
You can also store beets in a root cellar or cool basement. Pack them in damp sand or sawdust to prevent shriveling.
Extending The Beet Growing Season
Colorado’s short growing season doesn’t have to limit your beet harvest. Use these techniques to plant earlier and harvest later.
Using Cold Frames
A cold frame lets you start seeds 2 to 3 weeks earlier in spring. Build a simple wooden frame with a glass or plastic top. Place it over your garden bed and open it on warm days.
Floating Row Covers
Lightweight fabric covers protect plants from light frost and pests. Lay them directly over seedlings and secure the edges with soil or rocks. Remove covers when temperatures stay above 50°F.
Succession Planting
Plant a new batch of beet seeds every 2 to 3 weeks from spring through late summer. This gives you a continuous harvest instead of one big crop. Stop planting 8 weeks before your first fall frost.
Beet Greens: A Bonus Crop
Don’t ignore the leafy tops. Beet greens are nutritious and taste similar to Swiss chard. Harvest them when they’re 4 to 6 inches tall, leaving the root to continue growing.
You can harvest greens multiple times from the same plant. Just take a few outer leaves each time, never more than one-third of the plant’s foliage.
Troubleshooting Common Beet Growing Issues
Even experienced gardeners run into problems. Here are solutions for common beet growing issues in Colorado:
Poor Germination
If seeds don’t sprout, the soil may be too cold or too dry. Wait until soil warms to 45°F and keep it consistently moist. Soaking seeds before planting also helps.
Small Or Misshapen Roots
This usually means the soil is too compact or rocky. Loosen soil deeply before planting and remove obstacles. Thin seedlings to give roots room to expand.
Tough, Woody Roots
Overly mature beets become tough. Harvest when roots are 1.5 to 2 inches across. Also, inconsistent watering causes woodiness, so maintain even moisture.
White Rings Inside Beets
White rings are often a sign of boron deficiency. Colorado soil is sometimes low in boron. Apply a small amount of borax (1 teaspoon per 100 square feet) before planting. Be careful not to overdo it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planting Beets In Colorado
Can I plant beets in Colorado in March?
In warmer areas like Grand Junction, yes, if soil is workable and above 45°F. On the Front Range, March is usually too cold. Wait until mid-April at least.
How late can I plant beets in Colorado for a fall harvest?
Plant 8 to 10 weeks before your first fall frost. In Denver, that’s mid-July to early August. In mountain areas, plant by early August.
Do beets need full sun in Colorado?
Yes, beets need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade is okay in hot areas but will slow growth.
Should I soak beet seeds before planting in Colorado?
Soaking seeds for 12 hours speeds germination, especially in cool soil. It’s not required but helps in Colorado’s dry conditions.
Can I grow beets in containers in Colorado?
Yes, use containers at least 12 inches deep with drainage holes. Fill with loose potting mix and water more frequently than garden beds.
Final Tips For Beet Success In Colorado
Start small if you’re new to growing beets. Plant a short row of 10 to 15 seeds and see how they perform. Adjust your timing and care based on what you learn.
Keep a garden journal noting planting dates, weather, and harvest results. This helps you fine-tune your schedule year after year. Colorado’s climate varies widely, so local experience is invaluable.
Remember that beets are forgiving. Even if you plant a little early or late, you’ll likely get a decent harvest. The key is consistent moisture, loose soil, and proper timing.
With a little planning, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown beets from spring through fall. They store well, taste amazing, and add color to your garden and plate. Happy planting.